Vitamins for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Dogs with kidney disease lose a lot of water and water soluble vitamins, because their kidneys don't process the urine as they are supposed to. The weight and strength loss caused by a kidney problem can be compensated by a suitable diet and vitamin supplements.

Vitamins and Minerals for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Although the kidneys can never recover completely from a kidney problem due to the forming of scar tissue, a new diet as well as vitamin and mineral supplements will help improve the dog's condition and prolong his life:

  • Vitamin C is an antioxidant aiding cells to regenerate. As the dog drinks and urinates more, the vitamin C supplies are lost.
  • Vitamin B is not directly linked to kidney function, but when the kidneys are failing, the B vitamins are eliminated from the body. The B vitamins reduce stress and anemia and are needed. Your veterinarian will recommend a specific vitamin B compound. Vitamin B complex is sometimes an alternative.
  • Vitamin D offers immune system support.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids slow down the process of kidney decay and decrease inflammation.
  • An antioxidant such as vitamin E will help protect the kidneys from free radicals and reduce inflammation that is common in dogs with kidney disease.

Supplementation of folic acid, calcium and iron is also helpful.

Natural Remedies for Dogs with Kidney Disease

There are natural remedies which can improve the health of a dog with kidney disease by stimulating the blood circulation and the elimination of urine.

Ginkgo can be found in the form of tincture, capsules or tea. Ginkgo is known to stimulate circulation by inhibiting PAF (platelet-activating factor), which is responsible for the blood thickening. Ginkgo also helps reduce inflammation, including that of the kidneys or the urinary tract. When the blood is thinner and the vessels more elastic, the kidneys have an easier task. However, administered in excess, ginkgo can cause nausea or diarrhea.

Hawthorn is also available as a tincture or tea, and the berries can also be beneficial. Hawthorn can dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation. It is also a good antioxidant, which reduces toxicity in the body and makes it easier for the kidneys to deal with toxins. You can give the berries to your dog daily as a tonic or, if he refuses them, try hawthorn tea or a tincture in his food.

Dandelion helps increase urine flow, because it is a diuretic. It's also a rich source of vitamins and minerals and a safe supplement.

Diet for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Even before discussing vitamin supplements with your veterinarian, you will need to know a few basic facts about nutrition for dogs with kidney disease. Dogs with kidney disease are more sensitive to certain dietary elements.

Water is the most important. Because the kidneys do not concentrate urine properly, they lose more water that normal and the dog has to replace it. Make sure he always has plenty of fresh water to drink.

Excess calcium in the dog's diet will increase acidity in the kidneys and favor kidney stones. In order to avoid these, you will need to provide a low-protein diet to your dog.

 

Comments