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Originally Posted by JamieP  Yes, I have been on this site more than any other site. All of this is just soooo confusing. I keep hearing 'lower protein' and yet, the DogAware site states otherwise. Here is an example of what I read and copied: "Because by-products of protein digestion are the main toxins that need to be excreted by the kidneys, an obvious assumption might be that all one needs to do is to cut out the protein and the kidneys wouldn't have any more hard work to do. . . . There is significant evidence, however, that the daily protein requirements actually increase slightly for dogs in chronic renal failure. Therefore, severely restricting the protein for such a dog is likely to result in protein malnutrition, in spite of the fact that the levels of blood urea nitrogen, or BUN (the primary by-product of protein metabolism) would be correspondingly lower."
Now, that being said.....what am I suppose to do. Give her the chicken, don't give her the chicken. I've read also that taking protein from them causes even more muscle loss than what they already are losing due to this disease, and that it should NOT be taken completely. The only thing that I do know about chicken is that it is easier to digest for them than any other meat so it's not so hard on the kidneys. That is what my vet told me. I don't know. It seems the more I read, the more conflicting articles can become and the more confused I get!!!! Ughhhhhhhh! |
Honestly, I believe in the prescription diets. I kept two dogs alive for years...Cody had renal failure for four years and was on Purina NF until the last six months of his life. At that point he had pancreatic issues so the NF was not good for that. Another one, my Sassy, also was on NF for many years. If you plan to home cook, I definitely feel a nutritionist should be consulted. You do not cut protein out completely .. it is the amount.