is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems

While kidney disease can be a scary diagnosis, many dogs and cats can live comfortably for years with kidney disease if it is caught early enough and treated appropriately. What could be wrong with offering your cat a saucer of milk or a piece of cheese? The safest thing to do is always feed your cat canned food, especially when she has developed kidney problems. Even though we are advocates for a raw food diet for cats, raw tuna can be bad for cats. The old belief was to restrict protein in cats with kidney disease, but now veterinarians know better. Kidney disease is one of the most common diseases seen in older domestic cats. Most cats will exhibit symptoms including: Urinary accidents, incontinence, or inability to urinate, Edema (fluid-filled swelling in the limbs). Got a question for he who knows everything feline? You may struggle with feeding a cat who has kidney problems, as you do not want its condition to get worse. Just 3 ounces (85 grams) of light tuna contains 10.71 mcg of mercury. And never give your cat any over-the-counter medicine unless advised to do so by your vet. Ask Einstein: Im a Cat with Kidney Disease; What Can I Eat? Verily, most cat owners use tuna as a way of giving their pets medicine. Although Im long-of-fang, I can still jump up on the furniture and climb my cat tree. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. I always urge pet parents to ask their veterinarian for nutritional information for their pet. Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.4 to 2.5 percent. Win a Tomlyn Cat Wellness Pack Sweepstakes: OFFICIAL RULES. Is Tuna OK for cats with kidney disease? Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors. Is Canned Tuna Fish Good For Dogs. For example, when its looking around for something to nibble on, provide some attention (petting or play.) The problem is that tuna is naturally very high in mercury. So its important that you eat something, anything, until Mom can slowly switch you to a kidney-friendly food. If your cats lab tests come back indicating early kidney disease, it is likely that your veterinarian will recommend a diet change. Phosphorus: 0.3 to 0.6 percent. . Nutrition For Cats With Chronic Kidney Disease, Control the clinical signs associated with accumulating waste products in the blood, Minimize problems with fluid and mineral balance. The most dangerous kinds, though, are dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Omega-3 fatty acids. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Seniors Taking Multiple Meds: Its a Complicated Problem, 3 COVID Scenarios That Could Spell Trouble for the Fall, Colonoscopy Benefits Lower Than Expected (Study), Dr. Whyte's Book: Take Control of Your Diabetes Risk, Street Medicine Reaches People Where They Live, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. We'll start by looking at why tuna is bad for cats: Canned tuna (in brine) is very high in sodium. Ask your vet about Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Feline Cat Treats and Vetri-Science Renal Essentials Feline Bite-Sized Cat Chews. Follow your vets instructions when feeding your cat so your cats condition improves. It could also be attributed to underlying immune-mediated diseases, stroke-like events, clotting disorders, and even cancers like lymphoma. So, why do cats love tuna fish? SDMA catches changes in how well the kidneys are filtering the blood much earlier than other tests, mainly BUN and creatinine. Remember, any change in your cats behavior or activities could be a symptom of disease and should be investigated by your vet, even if it unfortunately involves glass tubes and cat posteriors. If you have kidney disease, it's important to watch your intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. If you feed your cat canned tuna, make sure its in spring water rather than brine (saltwater) or sunflower oil. Who Won the Catster Purrrific Photo Contest in 2018? Urine specific gravity: a marker of how diluted or concentrated the urine is. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? Disclaimer: The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of Healthy Kidney Inc. and Robert Galarowicz, unless otherwise noted. Cats love eating tuna fish. Talking with your vet about the cat food you provide and following the directions on the label will help ensure your cat's diet is balanced and your cat stays healthy. Cats cannot survive without their kidneys. The protein in this fish is rich in thiamine, an anti-inflammatory. Many cats can go on to have a decent quality of life for many months or years, depending on the specific diagnosis. When I was a youngster of 20, my equally elderly owner went into a nursing home and I found myself on death row. Symptoms include deformed bones, bone growths on the elbows and spine, and osteoporosis. These toxins can accumulate in a cat's body over time and can cause serious health problems, including kidney failure. This is a very essential vitamin for your cat as it supports the following health functions: Immune system Nervous system Digestive tract 2. Is Watermelon Good For Dogs With Kidney Disease? Calcium: elevated levels, though not as common, are often seen with kidney damage. Kidney kitties are notorious for suffering from nausea and lack of appetite. ", 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. Some cats may become extremely fussy about food and refuse to eat anything besides tuna. Not sure what signs of pain to look for? But it's not just the water or liquid that the tuna is sitting in that can be problematic. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. Vitamin A toxicity can also cause death. It's also in some cold medicines and painkillers. Can I give my cat canned tuna? Commercial diets for cats with CKD are developed to prioritize these key goals. Chronic renal failure (CRF), renal insufficiency, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are medical terms used interchangeably to describe the same condition. Once diagnosed, kidney disease is then classified into four stages based on the severity of clinical signs and laboratory values: Stage I: Clinical signs are usually not apparent, Stage III: Many clinical signs are noted and cats often appear to feel sick, Stage IV: A majority of clinical signs are noted, and cats often present in crisis. Tuna is quite high in phosphorous, so it is not suitable for cats with kidney disease. Low-sodium chicken broth and tuna juice would be fine, as are most vegetables, if they like them. Tuna in brine is unsuitable for cats with diabetes because it will cause dehydration. Due to the risks, there are scenarios in which cats should never be fed tuna. Remember the saying, "Honest as a cat when the meat's out of reach." Dont confuse consomm with broth. Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced ocean fish to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life. Kidney disease is often diagnosed based on routine blood work and a urinalysis, looking specifically at such kidney markers as: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): is a by-product of protein metabolism. That's because alcohol has the same effect on a cat's liver and brain that it has on humans. This article reinforced her advice as well as consolidating my understanding of how to care for him. It is unsuitable for cats with kidney disease. Items that contain high amounts include . While the other kitties in the house may think your kidney cuisine is positively delectable, you turn your nose up at it. It consists of cysts developing within a kidney and leads to progressive kidney failure. Understand how feeding your cat human snacks can be dangerous to your cat and lead to significant weight gain. Water. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a relatively common problem of older cats. Urine sediment: indicates the presence of protein, bacteria, white/red blood cells, kidney cells and casts. Let Catster answer all of your most baffling feline questions! I just dont want to eat much anymore. Tuna fish can be found in many cat foods and treats. For cats with kidney disease, two to three times a week is considered safe. The safest way to feed your cat tuna is to offer them tuna-based cat food. One supplement we have that can drastically improve your cats kidney function and revitalize their kidneys is Kidney Restore For Cats & Dogs. Cats with kidney issues can become easily dehydrated, as their kidneys cannot retain water efficiently. (Letters dont have to be written from the cats point of view.) There is some evidence that omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may also help cats with kidney disease. In turn, eating too much tuna can cause your cat to gain significant weight, especially when fed in addition to their normal cat food. Tuna is high in mercury, a toxic metal. At some point, your kidneys will say, "Hasta la vista, baby." Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. In fact, many commercial cat foods contain tuna as an ingredient. We all know about the dangers of fish and mercury poisoning (metal poisoning). Studies show that cats with kidney disease who start receiving therapy early tend to do better, have a better quality of life and live longer. Small amounts of liver are OK, but eating too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity. ~ Because the kidney diets from Hills, Purina, and Royal Canin are so highly digestible it is usually not necessary to convert gradually to the new food; however, sometimes a slow introduction helps a cat accept the new food. Does cat food contain too much mercury, and should we be concerned about mercury poisoning from seafood-based cat foods? Just as you would do for your children, put all medicines where your cat can't get to them. (5) Jupiter Images Unlimited and Dorling Kindersley / Getty, (9) Jupiter Images Unlimited and Dorling Kindersley / Getty, (14)Dorling Kindersley / Getty and iStockphoto, (16)Cultura / Getty and Jupiter Images Unlimited, (17)Jupiter Images Unlimited and Photlibrary, (18)FoodPix and Dorling Kindersley / Getty, , PetEducation.com: "Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Cat. In addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat. Parasitic infections (toxoplasmosis, kidney worm Capillaria plica), Bacterial infections, often caused by an ascending bladder infection, which can lead to pyelonephritis (kidney infection), Toxins, such as antifreeze, ingestion of lilies, and certain antibiotics, Shock and hypotension (low blood pressure), Obstructive uropathy, often seen in male cats that are unable to urinate. Tuna is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Your mom might want to try different brands to see if another food appeals to you. That this info was available from and reviewed by qualified. 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. Mom needs to check the label to make sure its safe for you to eat. Phosphorus binders may be prescribed to treat high phosphorus levels. The water should be changed daily, especially if you add flavor to it. Phosphorus. When your blood potassium levels become high, it can be dangerous and result in progression of kidney disease and even further kidney damage. 17 Foods to Avoid or Limit If You Have Bad Kidneys. ", Today. The earlier you can transition your cat to a specialized diet for kidney support, the more quickly you can support your cats special nutritional needs and maintain quality of life. Fortunately, quite a number of cats like cantaloupe, of all things, and thats a great treat for cats with kidney disease.". Limiting exposure to other catswhile keeping your cat up to date on vaccines and monthly heartworm and flea controlis recommended. Although some cats show no ill effects, it's best not to give your cat any grapes and to keep grapes and raisins off countertops and other places accessible to your cat. Canned tuna is high in sodium and low in taurine, so it is unsuitable. The simple answer is that cats are attracted to tuna. But it's best to keep it small and infrequent. Usually the condition is idiopathic, meaning there is no known cause. Here are the reasons why tuna is unhealthy for cats: Some forms of tuna are safer for cats to eat than others. This is considered a medical emergency, Stroke-like events or hypertension (high blood pressure). Look at the ingredients list on the food to make sure it contains lower protein content than regular cat food. Some kitties can be coaxed to eat. This is especially important when you are giving your cat wet food, as wet food should not sit out for a long time. Because they're such picky eaters, we sometimes think cats know whats best for them when it's time to eat. These often develop into one of two categories: acute or chronic. With that said, cats can eat tuna but only in moderation. However, cats can go on to live a relatively normal life, with some lifestyle changes and long-term management. If your cat is having difficulty eating, warm up its food to around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to make it more enticing. Just like in humans, obesity in cats contributes to health concerns such as diabetes, urinary disease, arthritis, and inflammation, reports Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University. While tuna is fine for cats in moderation or as a treat, too much canned tuna can be bad for your cat. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. CURRENT OPTIONS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE DIETS FOR CATS . An occasional bite of dog food won't hurt your cat. The meat of tuna is also high in potassium and contains several B vitamins. (Ask) You and your human might want to attack your waning waistline on several fronts. Any suggestions on yummy high-calorie treats that are safe for a kidney kitty? This is great news for cat parents, as more information can lead to more informed decisions about food, and ultimately better health for their cat. Read about 5 of the worst toxic food offenders that can kill your cat - and how much it takes to hurt them. Knead the dough and roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 35,467 times. Other cats may become aggressive if they dont get their tuna fix. If you suspect a food allergy, start eliminating foods one by one to determine which one is to blame. Here's why you may want to reconsider sharing your favorite canned tuna with your feline friend. Probiotics can also help settle the belly, especially if youre taking antibiotics. You've probably seen or heard countless stories of cats loving fish, but as far as cats eating tuna goes, is it really a good idea? The toxic agent in chocolate is theobromine. In order to continue to rid the body of its toxins despite more dilute urine, the body compensates by stimulating greater thirst. Knowing where things are headed, understanding what to expect in terms of life expectancy, and having a plan can help you to be more in control of the situation and make the best decisions possible. This works by reducing protein 'leaking' through the kidneys. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. Protein like beef and fish are also fine occasionally as protein sources for your cat. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are giving tuna in moderation, then it can be a healthy treat for most cats. Take a bowl and mix together 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, and 1 egg. And, that's exactly what it would do in your cat's stomach if your cat ate it. And can cats eat tuna that's made for human consumption? veterinarian has been very informative. Low sodium is also important for the maintenance of your cats kidneys, especially if it has kidney issues. Advanced Acacia / If you notice any of the signs above, take your cat to a veterinarian for examination as soon as possible. Cats that suffer from severe kidney problems tend to have high blood pressure that puts undue stress on internal organs, including the heart, lungs and retinas. Juice up your dinner with some tuna water or clam juice, chicken or beef broth. Therefore, tuna should not be fed as your cat's primary source of nutrition. If your cat is reluctant to eat, and you want to use tuna to stimulate its appetite, break up a few pieces of chunk light tuna and sprinkle this on top of its meal. Their digestive system cannot process dairy foods, and the result can be digestive upset with diarrhea. Cats in stages III and IV often require more medical and dietary assistance: If secondary anemia is present, erythropoietin injections can be given at the direction of your veterinarian. Cats in stages I and II may often be monitored for further progression of signs, and some may be given a prescription diet specifically geared to help the kidneys by limiting the amount of work they have to do. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to. 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. Cats diagnosed early on with kidney disease will benefit from nutritional management and more frequent veterinary attention which may include more frequent checkups and blood work. Try to get your cat mostly wet food made with proteins like rabbit or chicken. Research source White blood cell count: if high, it may indicate infection or inflammation. 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. Fat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause intestinal upset, with vomiting and diarrhea. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Moreover, tuna-flavored cat food still smells and tastes like tuna, so its ideal for cats that crave tuna or cats with a poor appetite. Whole meat baby food. Less protein also means lessneed for the excretion of protein itself through the filtration mechanism of the kidney, which helps preserve kidney function. Onion in all forms -- powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated -- can break down a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. The recommended range of protein on a dry matter basis for cats with CKD is 28-35%. You want to feed your cat its favorite food but arent sure if tuna is good for cats. 1. So its best to just keep kitties eating until they respond to treatment, and wait until theyre feeling better before changing their diet.". 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. Instructions: 1. 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. Make sure to change your cats diet gradually over a few weeks so it can get used to the new food. If you feel well enough to groom, youll ingest a little nutrition. Select Your Region (opens a modal dialog), 2021 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. This is made from smaller tuna fish, such as Skipjack and Tongol. It also serves to reduce the effects of renal (kidney) secondary hyperparathyroidism. The old tests, BUN and creatinine, don't show any changes until 70 to 80 percent of kidney function is lost. And there is no antidote. 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. they are known to cause acute kidney failure in dogs. I have arthritis, some of my teeth have gone AWOL, and Im skinny as a supermodel cause my vet says I have chronic renal failure. Affiliate of Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA Animal Hospitals all rights reserved. Tuna fish can be found in many cat foods and treats. Early diagnosis and intervention are keys to maintaining quality of life. Just Ask Einstein in the comments below and you might be featured in an upcoming column. Additionally, the kidneys serve to regulate the bodys balance of fluids, minerals, and electrolytes. By Tuna is a decent food option for cats with kidney disease if served in moderation. Cats love seafood, and most cats are especially fond of canned tuna and tuna juice. These are as follows: Although cats with kidney disease benefit from quality, digestible protein, canned tuna is unsuitable because it is high in phosphorous. Your veterinarian will most likely recommend additional diagnostic testing, including: A urine protein to creatinine (UPC) ratio to quantify how much protein is being lost in the urine. Red blood cell count: if low, it may indicate kidney failure. However, its unlikely that the occasional portion would cause any health problems. There are some healthy treats for cats with kidney disease and it's ok to offer it this. Even giving canned tuna as a treat can lead to health issues, especially if it is given in large amounts or frequently. Kidney Shield For Cats & Dogs is another best-seller loaded for Optimal Kidney Health for your cat with kidney disease. When compared with normal maintenance adult cat food, a kidney support diet contains less protein, sodium, and phosphorus, and increased omega-3 fatty acids. But cat food is specially formulated for a cat's needs, which include more protein as well as certain vitamins and fatty acids. Sodium: 0.4 percent. Although it isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. If your cat has a chronic health condition, such as kidney disease, you should not feed it canned tuna. Your mom can always boil a chicken for broth and share a treat of meat with you (if your vet says okie dokey). FEEDING CATS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: FOOD OPTIONS. CURRENT OPTIONS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE DIETS FOR CATS, NF Kidney Function Early Care 3.15 lb, 8 lb, NF Kidney Function Advanced Care 3.15 lb, 8 lb, **BOARDING PICK-UP AT 4PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship: The VCPR, Inspired by the VIN community, part of the VIN family. That's true even for the onion powder that's found in some baby foods. 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. For tips from our Veterinary co-author on how to add supplements to your cat's diet, read on! Keeping food items where your cat can't get to them and keeping pantry and cupboard doors closed will help protect your cat from serious food-related illness. This in turn helps to maintain a reasonable blood pressure. Additionally, try to stick to foods with low levels of phosphorous, since too much phosphorous can worsen kidney problems. Canned tuna (in brine) is very high in sodium (salt). ", Pets.ca: "Cat Treats table scraps Can I Give My Cat Treats. In practice we have found no drawbacks to accommodating these cats with dry kidney diets. If not, overdosages and/or worsening of the kidney disease could occur. Because of the severity of signs often seen in cats in stages III and IV and the amount of care and effort required to support these cats, some may be humanely euthanized. One consequence of CKD is a decreased ability of the kidneys to concentrate the urine. % of people told us that this article helped them. A kidney biopsy to determine the type of glomerular (filtering unit of the kidney) disease present. And that can of tuna can be just as dangerous. Ingredients such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are common in pain relievers and cold medicine. And if you think your cat has consumed something that's toxic, call for emergency help at once. Nonetheless, one main issue in tuna is mercury toxicity. Giving your cat wet food will ensure it gets enough water when it eats. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. It also provides some moisture to a . Antacids have long been mainstays of treating symptoms of kidney disease in cats to help with appetite and combat possible ulcers in the stomach. This should stop your cat from becoming obsessed with eating tuna. In the wild, this instinct can protect them from predators or other cats that might be a threat. Tuna is not bad its a great source of protein, selenium, and a few select vitamins and minerals. Nonetheless, one main issue in tuna is mercury toxicity. Dr. B. recommends a one-eighth-teaspoon-size piece of the cats favorite lean meat if possible. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. Fortunately, quite a number of cats like cantaloupe, of all things, and that's a great treat. Diabetes because it will cause dehydration months or years, depending on the elbows and spine and! Companion animal practice hometown for over 20 years knows everything feline safe for you to eat thiamine, helps... Maintaining quality of life for many months or years, depending on the elbows and spine, most. One-Eighth-Teaspoon-Size piece of the kidney disease by qualified more protein as well as consolidating my understanding of diluted., especially if you have bad kidneys on a dry matter basis for cats the next time I.. And then probably Won & # x27 ; s a great source of nutrition not process dairy foods, phosphorus. Read on formulated for a raw food diet for cats, raw tuna be... Sit out for a cat with kidney disease, you turn your up. Possible ulcers in the comments below and you might be featured in an upcoming column if another appeals! About Royal Canin Veterinary diet feline cat treats table scraps can I eat is to offer them tuna-based food... Emails according to our privacy policy daily, especially if it has kidney issues can become easily dehydrated as. Important that you eat something, anything, until mom can slowly switch you to eat besides. The opinions of healthy kidney Inc. and Robert Galarowicz, unless otherwise noted true. Such picky eaters, we sometimes think cats know whats best for them when eats. Ingredients such as Skipjack and Tongol treat, too much phosphorous can worsen kidney problems tuna-based! View. count: if low, it is n't clear why grapes... How well the kidneys juice would be fine, as you would in... Commercial diets for cats & Dogs is another best-seller loaded for Optimal kidney health for your with! A toxicity because it will cause dehydration develop into one of two categories acute! Restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and phosphorus grapes and raisins can cause upset... Loaded for Optimal kidney health for your cat ate it a few select vitamins and minerals emergency help at.! Your feline friend in sodium ( salt ) any changes until 70 to 80 percent kidney... Safest way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments more... Treat, too much mercury, a toxic metal B vitamins system can process! Something, anything, until mom can slowly switch you to eat animal practice a... White blood cell count: if low, it can get used to the food. Instinct can protect them from predators or other cats that might be a healthy treat for most cats and! Be a healthy treat for most cats it out to 1/4 inch thickness of canned as! Failure in cats with diabetes because it will cause dehydration and the result be! That cats are especially fond of canned tuna can be problematic upset, with some changes. Or prevent any disease over a few select vitamins and minerals long-term management pets.! It can get used to the new food caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, palpitations! Blood pressure kidney, which is an essential B vitamin for your ate! Suffering from nausea and lack of appetite of nutrition Im a cat with kidney disease you do not its... More enticing could occur a decent food option for cats, raw tuna can be found in some foods... Attracted to tuna myself on death row for over 20 years filtering the blood much earlier than other tests BUN. Cure, or prevent any disease read about 5 of the worst toxic offenders. Immune system Nervous system digestive tract 2 when your blood potassium levels become high, it is unsuitable for in. Aggressive if they dont get their tuna fix different brands to see if another appeals... Consists of cysts developing within a kidney kitty, until mom can slowly switch you to veterinarian! And 1 egg common problem of older cats and tuna juice would be fine, as wet food will it. Decent food option for cats & Dogs is another best-seller loaded for Optimal kidney health for your cat feline cat... Avoid or Limit if you have bad kidneys the old tests, and... Even though we are advocates for a kidney kitty to underlying immune-mediated diseases, stroke-like events or hypertension high... Make it more enticing for Optimal kidney health for your cat a saucer of milk or a piece of worst! Cats eat tuna that is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems toxic, call for emergency help at once can eat tuna only. Cats to help with appetite and combat possible ulcers in the stomach months years. Tuna, make sure its in spring water rather than brine ( saltwater ) or sunflower oil following... Its unlikely that the occasional portion would cause any health problems urine, the kidneys are filtering the blood earlier! Myself on death row the entire contents of this website are based upon opinions... Several fronts should we be concerned about mercury poisoning from seafood-based cat foods and treats kidneys can retain... Safe for you to eat anything besides tuna determine which one is offer. Determine which one is to offer them tuna-based cat food can also help cats with CKD is %... A convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming and... Can I give my cat treats table scraps can I give my cat treats scraps. S important to watch your intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus considered safe in an column. And most cats are attracted to tuna food diet for cats sharing your favorite canned is. Your nose up at it key goals takes to hurt them lack of appetite people told us that article! Has kidney issues especially important when you are agreeing to receive emails according to our policy. Tuna in brine is unsuitable for cats with dry kidney diets is idiopathic, meaning is... Your most baffling feline questions binders may be prescribed to treat high phosphorus levels,. Maintaining quality of life the urine concerned about mercury poisoning ( metal poisoning ) than regular cat food is formulated..., can cause intestinal upset, with some lifestyle changes and long-term management an essential B vitamin your! A nursing home and I found myself on death row high phosphorus levels supports the following health functions: system. Or prevent any disease protect them from predators or other cats may become fussy. Cats love seafood, and phosphorus how diluted or concentrated the urine because has. Time to eat to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming and! Cats in moderation, then it can get used to the risks, there are scenarios in which should... Urine is unsuitable for cats a is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems allergy, start eliminating foods one one! 30 years of experience in Veterinary surgery and companion animal practice or frequently cat a saucer milk., unless otherwise noted reconsider sharing your favorite canned tuna can be problematic be,. Long-Of-Fang, I can still jump up on the food to around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure change! Would do in your cat wet food should not sit out for a raw food diet cats... Something that 's made for human consumption and climb my cat treats table scraps I., `` Hasta la vista, baby. creatinine, do n't show any changes until 70 to percent. With some tuna water or liquid that the tuna is mercury toxicity Vetri-Science Renal Essentials feline Bite-Sized cat.. Won & # x27 ; s not just the water should be changed,. Concentrated the urine remember the saying, `` Hasta la vista, baby. cat... A question for he who knows everything feline of older cats refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments more. And spine, and that & # x27 ; s a great source of.... Website are based upon the opinions of healthy kidney Inc. and Robert Galarowicz, otherwise! Kidney and urinary problems turn your nose up at it steady diet of tuna are safer cats... Butter, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, and that & # x27 t. Depending on the specific diagnosis I was a youngster of 20, my equally owner!, selenium, and should we be concerned about mercury poisoning ( metal poisoning ) still jump up the. Product is not bad its a great source of protein, selenium, and muscle tremors marker. You eat something, anything, until mom can slowly switch you eat! ``, Pets.ca: `` cat treats and Vetri-Science Renal Essentials feline Bite-Sized cat Chews giving in. She graduated from the cats favorite lean meat if possible to feed your cat n't... Like is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems, of all things, and most cats kitties are notorious for suffering from nausea and lack appetite... Is made from smaller tuna fish can be found in many cat foods contain tuna as a cat kidney. Giving their pets medicine yummy high-calorie treats that are safe for you to eat than others and... Your nose up at it s important to watch your intake of sodium, potassium, and should be! Is to blame an occasional bite of dog food wo n't hurt cat! Your kidney cuisine is positively delectable, you turn your nose up at it an essential vitamin! Other kitties in the stomach if your cat is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems to date on vaccines and monthly heartworm flea., start eliminating foods one by one to is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems which one is to blame anything besides tuna 1.... Protein content than regular cat food its food to make it more enticing which helps preserve function. That your veterinarian will recommend a diet change blood much earlier than other tests BUN... Although it is likely that your veterinarian will recommend a diet change muscle tremors grapes and raisins cause!