Just like humans, caring for a dog with kidney disease is an important and challenging task. It is also an opportunity to show how much you love your beloved pet. One of the best ways to maintain the health of your pet is to provide homemade dog treats for dogs with kidney disease which are nutritious and kidney-friendly treats/food.
Store-bought food cannot be given because it often contains added sodium and protein that can aggravate kidney problems. That is why homemade dog food is the best option for dogs with kidney disease. Because in this case, you can control your ingredients, what to give and how much to give is completely in your hands, which helps your beloved dog get food and stay healthy.
In this blog post, we will discuss what treats you can make at home for dogs with kidney disease and mention what to avoid. We shall share three easy pet food/treat recipes that your dog will love and will make his body fit.
Why Homemade Dog Treats Are Best for Dogs with Kidney Disease
Dogs suffering from kidney disease cannot be given normal food, but they need to be given special food. The kidneys work to filter waste products from the blood, and when they do not work properly, toxic substances accumulate in our blood and body, which is the same in dogs. As a result, health complications arise in dogs. High-quality, easily digestible food should be consumed, along with the provision of nutrients, and keeping these aspects in mind, the amount of phosphorus, sodium, and protein in the food should be limited, and then that food will be suitable for reducing the pressure on the dog’s kidneys.
Homemade dog treats offer several advantages:
- Control Over Ingredients: If dog food is prepared at home, the ingredients can be controlled according to the dog’s needs. By including all the beneficial ingredients in the food and avoiding those that are harmful, health needs are met and nutritional levels are maintained.
- Freshness: Homemade foods are free of preservatives and artificial flavors, making them much fresher.
- Customization: You know what your kidney-affected dog’s preferences are and what nutritional requirements are in his diet, so you can adjust those ingredients accordingly.
Key Ingredients for Kidney-Friendly Dog Treats
You know all the likes and dislikes and nutritional needs of your kidney-affected dog. So while preparing food for this dog at home, it is essential to maintain low phosphorus, low sodium, and low protein content in the food. Here are some kidney-affected dog’s alternative foods/treats.
1. Low-Phosphorus Vegetables
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
2. Healthy Fats
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil (in moderation)
3. Low-Protein Grains
- White rice
- Oats
4. Egg Whites
- A great low-phosphorus protein source.
5. Herbs for Flavor
- Parsley (fresh, not dried)
- Basil
Ingredients to Avoid:
- High-phosphorus foods like dairy, organ meats, and bone meal.
- High-sodium ingredients like salt or processed foods.
- High-protein ingredients like red meat or chicken.
3 Easy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes for Kidney Disease
Here are some recipes for your dog with kidney disease. They are both safe and delicious for dogs, so they won’t cause any problems. However, you should always consult a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
1. Carrot and Oat Bites
This food is rich in fiber, similar to dog chews, and has low phosphorus, making it very suitable for dogs with kidney disease.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats (cooked)
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, finely chop the carrots. To it, mix the cooked oats, egg whites, and olive oil.
- Stir until well combined.
- Scoop small spoonful of the mixture onto the baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 20 minutes. Your dog’s treat is ready.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the treats are firm and slightly golden.
- Let them cool completely before serving the treats to your dog.
- If you make extra, you can store them in a container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
2. Zucchini and Rice Cookies
These treats are very crunchy and low in phosphorus and sodium, making them a great treat for any dog with kidney disease.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated zucchini (water squeezed out)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1 egg white
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 160 degrees Celsius or 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cooked rice, wood flour, and egg whites. Mix well.
Roll the mixture into small balls and flatten them into cookie shapes.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set. Let cool completely before serving. Store in a container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
3. Green Bean and Egg White Bites
It is a protein-packed food that is low in phosphorus but high in protein because it contains egg whites and green beans for extra fiber. It also has other benefits.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup finely chopped green beans
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease a small baking dish. In a bowl, mix the chopped green beans, egg whites, Fortified flour, and melted coconut oil.
- Fill each cup about halfway. Spoon the mixture into the molds.
- Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes until the custard sets. If you are making more than you need, refrigerate it and it can be stored for up to four to five days.
Tips for Feeding Homemade Treats to Dogs with Kidney Disease
- Portion Control: It is essential to feed healthy food to affected dogs in adequate amounts. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and put extra strain on the kidneys, which can worsen the kidney condition.
- Hydration: Always make sure that your dog has access to clean water, especially when introducing new treats/foods, as waterborne diseases can spread.
- Monitor Your Dog: Observe your affected dog’s behavior, appetite, bathroom habits, or other daily behaviors after introducing new treats.
- Consult Your Vet: Regularly check in with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s diet is meeting their nutritional needs.
Final Thoughts
Homemade dog treats for dogs Choosing the right food for your dog with kidney disease is very important. If you can feed him homemade dog treats for dogs with kidney disease, you will be doing an extra good job for his health.
By using kidney-friendly ingredients and avoiding harmful additives, you can create delicious nutritious food for your beloved dog. Your dog will love this food because it is made based on his needs and preferences. Remember that depending on the day, his needs are different or different, so it is very important to make a food list for him and consult a veterinarian for personal advice. Go ahead and make it.
You will see that your dog will be in very good condition physically and mentally. And if he is well, a good feeling will always work for you. And this will build a sweet bond between the two of you.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have a medical condition like kidney disease.
FAQs About Homemade Dog Treats for Kidney Disease
What ingredients should I avoid in treats for dogs with kidney disease?
A dog with kidney disease should not eat foods that contain high-sodium ingredients like dairy products, organ meats, or bone meal. Also, avoid high-sodium ingredients like salt and processed foods. Also, limit high-protein ingredients like red meat and chicken, as these can put a strain on the kidneys.
Can I use peanut butter in homemade dog treats for kidney disease?
Most commercially available Chinese nut butter products contain salt and phosphorus, which are harmful to dogs with kennel cough. If you absolutely must use Chinese nut butter, choose one that is low in sodium, salt-free, and phosphorus-free, and use it in very small quantities.
How often can I give my dog homemade treats?
Treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s total food or calorie needs. Kidney stones are a common cause of kidney disease in dogs, which require very limited amounts of food.
Are these treats suitable for all dogs with kidney disease?
Although these recipes are designed to be kidney-friendly, every dog is unique, with different breeds, health conditions, activity levels, etc., so it’s always best to consult an expert before introducing new foods or changing diets without taking any risks.
What if my dog doesn’t like the treats?
Your dog can be a little fussy when adjusting to any new food. He may not want to eat it right away. Try experimenting with different kidney-friendly ingredients to see which ones work best for him, and keep trying, or adding a small amount of parsley for garnish. Whatever you do, make the change very gradually.
Can I use these treats for dogs without kidney disease?
Yes, these foods can be fed to dogs without kidney disease as they are very healthy and nutritious. Although they are specially formulated for dogs with kidney disease, they are safe for them. Always observe your dog’s reaction to new foods. If you see any other reaction, take appropriate action.
How do I know if my dog’s kidney disease is worsening?
The progressive symptoms of kidney disease include frequent urination, increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and above all, lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog or if they increase, it is a sign that the kidney condition may be worsening, in which case contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can I add supplements to these treats?
Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, in treats specifically made for dogs with kidney disease may support kidney health. However, be sure to consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.