is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems

WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. % of people told us that this article helped them. "Firstly that the specific topic(s) were covered. But it's not just the water or liquid that the tuna is sitting in that can be problematic. They do have many of the same ingredients. Therefore, tuna should not be fed as your cat's primary source of nutrition. In fact, many commercial cat foods contain tuna as an ingredient. Other brands are not worth considering, and it is not possible to duplicate the benefits of these CKD diets with a home-cooked diet. One supplement we have that can drastically improve your cats kidney function and revitalize their kidneys is Kidney Restore For Cats & Dogs. Protein. Low-sodium chicken broth and tuna juice would be fine, as are most vegetables, if they like them. Tuna has a strong, fishy smell that is very appealing to cats. . In addition to tea and coffee -- including beans and grounds -- caffeine can be found in cocoa, chocolate, colas, and stimulant drinks such as Red Bull. Kitties are perfectly capable of starving ourselves to death if the food doesnt appeal to us. ", University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: "Killer Grapes and Other Concerns in Animal Poison Control. Higher values can often indicate kidney failure. ", http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/cat-kidney-disease#1, http://consciouscat.net/2016/02/15/the-right-diet-for-cats-with-kidney-disease/, https://www.medicanimal.com/The-truth-about-renal-diets-for-cats/a/ART111494, https://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/Pet-Health-Topics/categories/diseases/chronic-kidney-disease-and-failure, http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/cat-kidney-disease#2-7, https://icatcare.org/advice/cat-health/chronic-kidney-disease-cats-%E2%80%93-management. ", My buddy Dr. Drew Weigner, an exclusively feline veterinarian in Atlanta, says, "As far as homemade treats, anything low in protein and sodium should be fine in moderation, but that excludes most things cats like! Rabbit is fairly strong-tasting and low in phosphorous, so its a healthy alternative to tuna fish for cats. Many human foods are dangerous to cats. A cat with heart disease is fed a low sodium and high taurine diet. Some commercial cat foodtends to be high in phosphorus, which is not a good food to feed cats with kidney disease. However, canned tuna is high in sodium. Frequent consumption of tuna may also lead to mercury poisoning explains Cailin Heinze, a veterinary nutritionist at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Whereas tuna, perch, salmon, and haddock have . Why Do Some Cats Hang Their Heads Over Their Water Bowls? When I was a youngster of 20, my equally elderly owner went into a nursing home and I found myself on death row. However, its unlikely that the occasional portion would cause any health problems. Got a question for he who knows everything feline? It is because a high amount of protein adds strain to the kidneys, a healthy combination would be a better choice. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a relatively common problem of older cats. However, if your cat is living with kidney disease, you should start off by limiting the protein. It may be necessary to work with your veterinarian as you start making your homemade food for cats with kidney disease . For example, when its looking around for something to nibble on, provide some attention (petting or play.) Unfortunately, foods that taste good are not always the healthiest for cats. ", VeterinaryPartner.com: "Feline Mysteries.". Cats are carnivores and need meat. Specific management is geared toward the underlying cause (if known) as well as the stage of the disease. Here are some tips for identifying the subtle signs of pain in cats and talking with your veterinarian about making sure your cat is pain-free. Eating too much too often can do the same thing to cats that it does to humans. These are as follows: Kidney Problems Although cats with kidney disease benefit from quality, digestible protein, canned tuna is unsuitable because it is high in phosphorous. Then, sadly, it might be time for your mom to read The Feline Quality of Life Scale Helps You Determine If Its Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat.. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. Contact. Cats diagnosed with kidney disease are often prescribed a kidney-friendly diet which may include feeding your cat canned, wet foods that contain additional water. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? Here are the reasons why tuna is unhealthy for cats: Sodium. To feed a cat with kidney problems, give it wet food instead of dry food, since cats with weak kidneys struggle to stay hydrated. . Monitoring food consumption is very important when managing your cat's health. If you have kidney disease, it's important to watch your intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. That the advice was understandable and can be easily applied. Tuna fish can be found in many cat foods and treats. Based on the cause, additional therapy may be instituted, such as: Aggressive IV antibiotics, if infection is present, Immunosuppressive-type drugs for auto-immune diseases, Antithrombotics (to prevent blood clot formation), Chemotherapy and/or surgery (if cancer is part of the underlying cause). But does this mean that you should never feed your cat tinned tuna? Just as you would do for your children, put all medicines where your cat can't get to them. Fat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause intestinal upset, with vomiting and diarrhea. When enough damage has occurred (losing about two-thirds of kidney function), signs become apparent and regeneration will not occur, leading to chronic kidney disease. For most conditions listed above, I wouldnt classify kidney disease in of itself as painful. A steady diet of hard, low-quality, processed cat food can also cause kidney and urinary problems. Here are the healthiest ways to feed your cat tuna: Although raw food has some health benefits, you should not feed raw tuna to cats. And, too much tuna can cause mercury poisoning. The old tests, BUN and creatinine, don't show any changes until 70 to 80 percent of kidney function is lost. Low sodium is also important for the maintenance of your cats kidneys, especially if it has kidney issues. Does cat food contain too much mercury, and should we be concerned about mercury poisoning from seafood-based cat foods? Repeated vomiting and hyperactivity are early signs. Its OK to treat your cat with a few chunks of canned tuna, but this should be in addition to its regular meals. Any suggestions on yummy high-calorie treats that are safe for a kidney kitty? There are some healthy treats for cats with kidney disease and it's ok to offer it this. Symptoms include deformed bones, bone growths on the elbows and spine, and osteoporosis. Unfortunately theres no cure for CRF, but a diet low in sodium and phosphorus may slow down the loss of kidney function. Ask Einstein: Im a Cat with Kidney Disease; What Can I Eat? Drugs prescribed in the future for any other disease process will need to be tailored or substituted for a more kidney-friendly alternative, given that kidney metabolism will be decreased. Usually the condition is idiopathic, meaning there is no known cause. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. It is worthwhile to keep trying, but, at the same time, the cat should be fed plenty of the non-kidney diet food(s) it likes. Common signs that a cat is sick are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst, and many more. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. The higher the proof, the worse the symptoms. In addition, when the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol that can lead to alcohol poisoning. Although it isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors. Garlic and onions they cause Heinz hemolytic anemia. You may struggle with feeding a cat who has kidney problems, as you do not want its condition to get worse. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your veterinarian right away to determine the causes and create a treatment plan. ~ The most important thing nutritionally for a cat with CKD is that they consume a reasonable amount of calories from a reasonable quality food or foods. If tuna is part of your cat's meal plan and you notice them acting out of sorts, consider taking them into your veterinarian for a wellness visit it's always a good idea to get a baseline reading to ensure nothing serious is going on. Anemia Due to Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats, Kidney Disease Caused by Multiple Cysts in Cats, Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats: Monitoring Nutrition is Essential. Just two teaspoons of whisky can cause a coma in a 5-pound cat, and one more teaspoon could kill it. Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Robin Downing, DVM, CVPP, CCRP, DAAPM, Contributors: Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Robin Downing, DVM, CVPP, CCRP, DAAPM. Limiting exposure to other catswhile keeping your cat up to date on vaccines and monthly heartworm and flea controlis recommended. Dont confuse consomm with broth. Kidney disease can be caused by a variety of factors: For some cats, the disease could have occurred after a serious kidney injury, from a severe infection (including feline infectious peritonitis, feline immunodeficiency virus, and pyelonephritis), ingestion of a toxic substance (like antifreeze or lilies), and from certain medications. That way, your cat will benefit from the high levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in tuna but will still be eating a nutritionally balanced meal. Cats with kidney problems like chronic kidney disease need to maintain a special diet to stay healthy and manage their symptoms. They love the powerful smell and the robust flavor of this fish, and a spoonful of tuna has been known to make the medicine go down easily. It's important to be aware of your potassium because your kidneys can't filter it. Remember Im not a vet, but I watch Animal Planet. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma. Because they're such picky eaters, we sometimes think cats know whats best for them when it's time to eat. Renal cat food often contains rabbit meat because it is naturally low in phosphorous. If your cat is having difficulty eating, warm up its food to around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to make it more enticing. Look at the ingredients list on the food to make sure it contains lower protein content than regular cat food. So, why do cats love tuna fish? Cats love eating tuna fish. If you dont like the kibble, then check out the canned version. Dietary sodium levels are mildly restricted to reduce the workload on the kidneys. Instructions: 1. veterinarian has been very informative. Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. Cats shouldnt be fed canned tuna in oil or brine. Limiting dietary phosphorus in cats with CKD appears to help delay the progression of CKD, although the precise mechanism is unknown. It is an indication of infection and/or kidney damage. I just dont want to eat much anymore. 1. A well-balanced meal plan for cats includes protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Tuna is high in protein and low in carbohydrates and as tuna is a fish, it provides our cats with omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) which are good for skin and coat health. Here are a few things your mom can try to make that kidney diet more palatable: You also need to stay hydrated. Probiotics can also help settle the belly, especially if youre taking antibiotics. A diet that is high in phosphorous will speed up the development of kidney disease. (Ask) To encourage more water intake, change your pets water several times a day, clean your pets water bowl daily, and consider the use of a running water fountain to increase water interest. Did you know that the kidneys secrete a hormone that regulates blood pressure? ", Today. ", PetWare web site: "Lactose Intolerance in Cats. This is a serious condition that can affect your cat's bones. A few things that do not appear in the veterinary textbooks or on the food label, that we have learned over years of managing cats with CKD: ~ Ideally the pet would be fed only canned food because of the benefit of higher moisture content. Just 3 ounces (85 grams) of light tuna contains 10.71 mcg of mercury. Additionally, for all stages of kidney disease, fresh water should always be available. Phosphorous: elevated phosphorous levels typically indicate kidney damage. Cats instinctively prefer food thats the body temperature of a mouse. Already have a myVCA account? Cats can also be allergic to fish. X If a urinary obstruction is noted, relieving the obstruction would be the treatment of choice. Radiographs or abdominal ultrasound to screen for kidney stones, infarcts (areas of dead tissue), and cysts. Heres how to get your cat to drink more water. The problem is that tuna is naturally very high in mercury. About the author: Einsteins assistant,Dusty Rainbolt ACCBC, is the vice president of the Cat Writers Association, editor-in-chief of AdoptAShelter.com and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. There are two problems with giving your cat raw eggs. Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) are often affected by the primary diseasebut also by secondary factors such as vomiting and a lack of appetite. In the wild, this instinct can protect them from predators or other cats that might be a threat. References document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I'm Richard, the lead writer for Senior Cat Wellness. Your mom might want to try different brands to see if another food appeals to you. As it swells inside, the dough can stretch the abdomen and cause severe pain. Your mom might want to have your vet check you out. Cats in chronic kidney failure will not recover, in the sense that they will have no lingering effects of the disease, as it is not curable. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. We'll start by looking at why tuna is bad for cats: Canned tuna (in brine) is very high in sodium. I'm a proud owner of 5 adult cats (all adopted strays), including a senior cat who is now 20. A steady diet of dog food can cause your cat to be severely malnourished. They conserve water and protein and play an important role in maintaining blood pressure and red blood cell production by making a hormone called erythropoietin. Many of these conditions are progressive in nature and debilitating which can lead to death. Prescription cat food that focuses on . It could lead to dehydration, high blood pressure, and urinary problems. Consuming this food could lead to dehydration and urinary problems, especially in senior cats. . Understand how feeding your cat human snacks can be dangerous to your cat and lead to significant weight gain. It is worthwhile to keep trying, but, at the same time, the cat should be fed plenty of the non-kidney diet food(s) it likes. Feline kidney disease treatment often includes a diet consisting of highly digestible protein that meets or exceeds minimum standards, is restricted in phosphorus, and is high in omega-3 fatty acids. I always urge pet parents to ask their veterinarian for nutritional information for their pet. It isnt easy to say no to a cat when its begging for its favorite fish-based food. These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to malnutrition because it won't have all the nutrients a cat needs. If your cats lab tests come back indicating early kidney disease, it is likely that your veterinarian will recommend a diet change. The life expectancy of a cat with kidney disease varies depending on the underlying cause and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Nonetheless, one main issue in tuna is mercury toxicity. It is important to follow your veterinarians recommendations if she suggests starting annual bloodwork to check for signs of hidden feline kidney disease. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien. Look for wet food that contains tuna juice, clam juice, chicken broth, and beef broth. Farmed tuna contains lower levels of mercury than wild-caught fish. But it takes far less to do its damage. Cats cannot survive without their kidneys. All rights reserved. When your senior cat was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), you may have felt worried, confused, and overwhelmed.. Getting a diagnosis of CKD is never easy. However, though not on the list of toxic foods for cats, tuna that's meant for people can cause health issues for cats. Eating chocolate can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and death. The problem is that tuna is naturally very high in mercury. How to Maximize the Nutritional Benefits of Tuna. 14 of the 101 samples had abnormally high levels of mercury compared to the rest (greater than 100 ng g1), Foods containing tuna and prawn had the highest concentrations of mercury, Two samples of the same cat food from different batches had different amounts of mercury. Some causes of kidney disease may be preventable (such as toxicologic causes), but unfortunately, most causes are not. While most drugs used to treat pets with kidney disease are only meant to reduce symptoms, feeding the right diet can have dramatic effects on survival - studies have shown that pets that eat diets designed for kidney . Other cats may become aggressive if they dont get their tuna fix. Make sure to change your cats diet gradually over a few weeks so it can get used to the new food. But it's not a good idea. Many cats can go on to have a decent quality of life for many months or years, depending on the specific diagnosis. The meat of tuna is also high in potassium and contains several B vitamins. Fish like halibut, tuna, cod, and snapper tend to be high in potassium. Over time, cats can develop an unhealthy addiction to tuna. Among the many edible species of fish, tuna is not good for your dog with kidney disease. The toxic agent in chocolate is theobromine. K/D Mobility 6.35 lb FEEDING CATS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: FOOD OPTIONS. The Feline Quality of Life Scale Helps You Determine If Its Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat, 9 Things You Should Know About Feline Chronic Kidney Disease. The Merck Veterinary Manual lists fish as a top food allergen for cats, noting that common signs of an allergic reaction include itching, hair loss, red or swollen skin and red bumps. Try to get your cat mostly wet food made with proteins like rabbit or chicken. Here's why you may want to reconsider sharing your favorite canned tuna with your feline friend. In addition, SDMA is much less affected by dehydration and protein loss than BUN and creatinine. When human foods are converted to kitty calories, it is easy to see that foods intended for humans have far too many calories for our feline companions. But it's best to keep it small and infrequent. Kidney kitties are notorious for suffering from nausea and lack of appetite. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,467 times. Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. Be patient and do not try to rush your cat into eating the new food right away. However, though not on the list of toxic foods for cats, tuna that's meant for people can cause health issues for cats. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Additionally, try to stick to foods with low levels of phosphorous, since too much phosphorous can worsen kidney problems. Many other items commonly found on kitchen shelves can harm your cat. Dont serve cold food. It is important to know that there are many things one can do for their cat with kidney disease to surely help them. However, large and long-living fish, such as albacore or bluefin tuna, contain higher levels of mercury than smaller fish. Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy. Win a Tomlyn Cat Wellness Pack Sweepstakes: OFFICIAL RULES. The most dangerous kinds, though, are dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Go for canned wet food that is high quality and all natural. Fluids given either intravenously or underneath the skin can help with dehydration, and your veterinarian can show you how to administer these fluids at home. Featured Image: iStock.com/Phynart Studio. Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. However, if your cat is living with, Tuna is a decent food option for cats with kidney disease if served in moderation. There are a variety of potential causes for CRF, including diseases such as feline leukemia, tumors, infections, and various toxins. Kittens grow a lot in their first year, so it is important to provide them with the proper nutrients early, so they grow up healthy and strong. Some cats that experience acute kidney insults can recover, although there may be long-term effects that can lead to chronic kidney failure. That doesnt mean I have the body of a 20-month-old. These diets are formulated to help cats with CKD avoid metabolic acidosis and are available from your veterinarian. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Feed-a-Cat-with-Kidney-Problems-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Feed-a-Cat-with-Kidney-Problems-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d7\/Feed-a-Cat-with-Kidney-Problems-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid8731269-v4-728px-Feed-a-Cat-with-Kidney-Problems-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"