Diet modification is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of managing pets with illnesses, particularly those with congestive heart failure. This article delves into the specifics of Hill's cardiac diets, exploring their ingredients, suitability, and alternative dietary approaches for pets with heart conditions.
The Importance of Sodium Restriction
A key element in managing congestive heart failure in pets is controlling sodium intake. Generally, pets at high risk or with a history of congestive heart failure benefit from a moderately sodium-restricted diet, containing no more than 100 mg of sodium per 100 gram dry weight. Prescription diets are available offering moderate to severe sodium restriction (less than 50 mg sodium per 100 gram dry weight).
Limiting dietary sodium helps manage the fluid retention associated with congestive heart failure, a concern that intensifies as the condition progresses. "End-stage" patients on multiple diuretics often require strict sodium intake control. However, it's crucial to remember that illness can diminish a pet's appetite, and sodium-restricted diets are often less palatable, especially for cats. In such cases, prioritizing food intake, even if it means deviating from a strict diet, becomes paramount.
Prescription Diets: A Closer Look
Many sodium-restricted diets for dogs and cats are available by prescription from your veterinarian. The best choice depends on the presence of concurrent health problems. Consulting with your veterinarian, or a board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialist or cardiologist, is highly recommended.
It's essential to note that diets with very low sodium content may lack adequate protein. Many patients with severe, end-stage congestive heart failure, particularly right-sided heart failure, may develop cardiac cachexia, leading to chronic muscle wasting due to poor nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract resulting from chronic congestion.
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Hill's Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care: An Example
Hill's Prescription Diet h/d Heart Care with Chicken Canned Dog Food is one example of a commercially available cardiac diet. It's produced through hot extrusion, using feed-grade ingredients, and contains synthetic additives. It does not contain antinutrients, but it also contains ingredients like Whole Grain Corn and Chicken Liver Flavor.
Hill's also offers i/d Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food and i/d Chicken Flavor Dog Food, both formulated to be highly digestible and palatable. These diets are clinically proven to help manage digestive upsets, which can be a concern for pets with heart conditions. At Hill’s, they're dedicated to making foods your pet will love. If you’re not satisfied for any reason with a product purchased from one of our authorized sellers, simply return the unused portion to the place of purchase for your money back or a replacement product. Prebiotics are what nourishes gut bacteria - and may influence the overall health and wellbeing of your pet.
Homemade Diets: When and How
When pets refuse to eat regular food, homemade diets can be a viable option. Plain boiled chicken or beef with plain white rice or pasta is generally acceptable on a short-term basis, particularly if the pet is experiencing gastrointestinal upset or diarrhea.
Hill's provides a homemade canine recipe for a sodium-restricted diet (approximately 50 mg of sodium per 100 gram dry weight):
- ¼ lb. ground round or other lean beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice without salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 t (9 grams) dicalcium phosphate (available at drug and health food stores; bone meal can be substituted)
- Balanced vitamin/mineral supplement
Instructions:
Cook beef in a skillet, retaining fat, stirring until lightly browned. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Keep covered in the refrigerator. Yields 1 lb. Feed a sufficient amount to maintain body weight.
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Approximate Daily Feeding Guide:
- 5 lb: 1/3 lb
- 10 lb: 1/2 lb
- 20 lb: 1 lb
- 40 lb: 1 3/4 lb
- 60 lb: 2 1/3 lb
- 80 lb: 2 3/4 lb
- 100 lb: 3 1/3 lb
When preparing homemade meals, avoid adding sodium and be cautious of ingredients like chicken or beef stock/broth, which are often high in sodium.
The Importance of Maintaining Appetite
Maintaining a pet's appetite is crucial, especially for those with congestive heart failure. These patients are often on multiple medications, and inadequate food and water intake can lead to dehydration and illness. While treats may be acceptable in some cases, they should generally be avoided in patients with end-stage disease due to their high sodium content. Opt for low-salt treats if treats are given.
Cats, in particular, can become picky eaters when ill. In such cases, adhering to strict prescription low-sodium diets may not be realistic, and simply ensuring they eat anything becomes the priority.
Key Considerations
- Consult your veterinarian: Your veterinarian is the best resource for information and care regarding your pet's specific needs. They can provide unbiased feedback and help tailor a diet plan suitable for your pet's condition.
- Read labels carefully: When choosing commercial diets or treats, carefully examine the ingredient list and sodium content.
- Monitor your pet's weight and appetite: Regularly monitor your pet's weight and appetite, and adjust their diet as needed in consultation with your veterinarian.
- Be patient and persistent: Finding the right diet for a pet with congestive heart failure can be challenging. Be patient and persistent, and work closely with your veterinarian to find a solution that works for both you and your pet.
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