Feline CKD diets: when and how to use them

Feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common disease, especially in elderly cats. Nutritional management is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic plan. CKD diets have a variety of modifications, including phosphorus restriction, protein moderation, omega 3 fatty acid supplementation, extra B vitamins and potassium, and mild alkalinization. However, there is controversy about when to start using them and regarding their protein provision. During this talk we will discuss what makes CKD diets special and how to choose them, depending on the CKD staging and other circumstances of patient and client. We will also talk about when is the best time to introduce them to obtain their benefits.

• - Know how to assess and interpret the nutritional information from commercial feline CKD diets
• - Choose the right CKD diet among those available depending on the nutritional assessment and CKD staging
• - Identify the right time to switch to a CKD diet after diagnosis