Dear VetBabble: How Can I Help My Senior Cat with Kidney Disease Maintain a Healthy Weight?
My 17.5-year-old cat has kidney disease, and my vet recommended feeding him only wet veterinary diet kidney food. However, my cat doesn’t like it, eats little, and is losing weight (his weight was good before). Do you have any suggestions?
Understanding Kidney Disease in Cats
Kidney disease in cats is a common problem, especially in older cats. The recommended treatment typically includes a prescription kidney diet, as these diets are specifically formulated to help manage the condition by reducing the load on the kidneys. However, it is crucial for your cat to eat a sufficient amount of food to maintain a healthy weight. If your cat isn’t eating the prescribed food, it may be necessary to explore other options.
Addressing the Issue of a Picky Eater
It’s always a challenge when your cat refuses to eat the food they need for their health, as seen in your situation. The first thing to consider is whether your cat dislikes canned food in general or if it’s just the specific brand you’ve chosen. There are several brands of prescription kidney diets available, such as Science Diet, Purina, Iams, and Royal Canin, and you could try offering your cat different varieties to determine if they have a preference.
If your cat continues to refuse a prescription canned kidney diet, you could explore other options, such as a non-prescription canned food or a prescription kidney dry food. Finding a food that your cat enjoys and maintains their weight might take some experimentation, so don’t be discouraged if that’s the case. Remember that consulting with your veterinarian and monitoring your cat’s overall health is always a good idea.
Additional Strategies for Maintaining Your Cat’s Weight
Aside from finding a suitable diet for your senior cat, there are other strategies you can explore to ensure they maintain a healthy weight. Be sure to check out some helpful resources on this topic such as 10 Simple Tips to Help Your Cat Lose Weight and My Cat Won’t Eat! What Should I Do?.
Ultimately, it’s essential to closely monitor your cat’s weight and overall health, as weight loss can exacerbate their kidney disease. If your cat continues to lose weight or doesn’t show any improvement despite trying different diets, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. They may suggest additional tests or recommend a more intensive treatment plan to ensure the best possible quality of life for your furry friend.
Good luck with finding a suitable diet for your cat! We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any other concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out and discuss them with your veterinarian. Thanks for using VetBabble!
