Advance Veterinary Diets Renal for dogs
CKD can affect animals of any age, but it is more common in elderly patients and the prevalence is around 10% in dogs. It is characterised by the normally progressive and irreversible loss of functional kidney tissue. Each loss of a nephron contributes to impaired renal function and the subsequent drop in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Animals that suffer a fall in GFR > 50% that lasts for more than 2–3 months are said to have developed CKD.1
Many, but not all, patients manifest some clinical signs of chronic kidney disease, such as weight loss, reduced muscle mass and an unkempt appearance. Polyuria and polydipsia occur when the kidneys are unable to regulate fluid balance.2
The treatment of CKD should always be individualised to each patient. The management of animals with CKD involves a three-pronged approach with specific, nephroprotective and symptomatic treatments. The nephroprotective therapy is intended to control the factors that contribute to CKD’s progression (proteinuria, arterial hypertension, glomerular hypertension, impaired mineral metabolism, fibrosis). The aim of the nephroprotective treatment prong is to delay disease progression, improve patient quality of life and increase survival time.1
Implementing dietary changes is a fundamental part of CKD management in dogs. Current renal prescription diets have a reduced protein, phosphorus and sodium content and more soluble fibre, B-complex vitamins, Ω-3 fatty acids and antioxidants as well as a greater dietary buffering capacity. Low phosphorus diets have also been shown to reduce CKD progression and increase survival in dogs with experimental kidney failure.1
Prebiotics and probiotics may also help redistribute small amounts of nitrogen to the gastrointestinal tract and reduce the presence of azotaemia that typically occurs in chronic kidney disease. We recommend changing the patient’s diet as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed, because it is easier to introduce a therapeutic diet when the animal is still feeling well, before the disease progresses.2
To help treat this disease, Advance has developed the Advance Veterinary Diets Renal, a feed designed specifically for dogs with kidney problems.
Advance Veterinary Diets Renal is a complete diet that helps dogs with kidney problems thanks to its unique composition and beneficial features:
- Low phosphorus content – slows the progression of kidney failure.
- Soluble fibre – helps reduce nitrogen excreted by the kidney by up to 14%.
- Neutral pH – helps prevent the formation of oxalate stones.
- Moderate protein and sodium levels to promote kidney function and maintain muscle mass.
The Advance Veterinary Diets Renal is formulated to benefit dogs with kidney problems by achieving more control over acidosis, greater glomerular protection and a reduced renal load.
