Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support formulas are designed to support the kidney health of adult dogs under the guidance of a veterinarian. These diets come in various formulations, each with a specific purpose, such as stimulating appetite or providing targeted nutritional support. A close examination of the ingredients and guaranteed analysis reveals the nutritional strategy behind these specialized diets.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
A variety of ingredients are used in Royal Canin Renal Support diets, each playing a specific role in supporting kidney function and overall health. The ingredients commonly found in these diets can be categorized into several key groups:
Carbohydrate Sources
Brewers Rice: Brewers rice is a common carbohydrate source in pet food, providing energy and digestibility.
Corn: Corn is another source of carbohydrates and energy.
Corn Gluten Meal: Corn gluten meal is a protein-rich component derived from corn, contributing to the overall protein content of the diet.
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Brown Rice: Brown rice is a whole grain that provides carbohydrates and fiber.
Protein Sources
Chicken Fat: Chicken fat is a primary source of fat, providing energy and enhancing palatability.
Chicken By-Product Meal: Chicken by-product meal is a concentrated source of animal protein and minerals.
Soy Protein Isolate: Soy protein isolate is a highly digestible plant-based protein source.
Wheat Gluten: Wheat gluten is a protein derived from wheat, contributing to the overall protein content.
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Pork Digest: Pork digest is a hydrolyzed protein source, making it easier to digest and potentially more palatable.
Fish Meal: Fish meal provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Fiber Sources
Powdered Cellulose: Powdered cellulose is a source of insoluble fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting healthy bowel movements.
Dried Plain Beet Pulp: Beet pulp is a source of fiber that helps regulate intestinal transit.
Powdered Psyllium Seed Husk: Psyllium seed husk is a soluble fiber that can help manage digestive health and promote satiety.
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Pea Fiber: Pea fiber is another source of fiber that aids in digestion.
Fats and Oils
Fish Oil: Fish oil is a crucial source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have anti-inflammatory properties and support kidney health.
Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil provides additional fat and energy.
Vitamins and Minerals
A comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals is included to support overall health and well-being:
- Vitamins: DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), niacin supplement, biotin, riboflavin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, vitamin D3 supplement.
- Trace Minerals: Zinc oxide, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, sodium selenite, calcium iodate, zinc proteinate, manganese proteinate, copper proteinate.
Additives and Supplements
Natural Flavors: Natural flavors enhance the palatability of the food, encouraging consumption, which is particularly important for dogs with decreased appetite due to kidney issues.
Sodium Silico Aluminate: Sodium silico aluminate is used as an anti-caking agent.
Potassium Citrate: Potassium citrate helps maintain proper urine pH, which is beneficial for kidney health.
Sodium Pyrophosphate: Sodium pyrophosphate helps control tartar buildup on teeth.
L-Arginine: L-arginine is an amino acid that supports kidney function.
Choline Chloride: Choline chloride is important for nerve function and overall health.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS): Fructooligosaccharides are prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Salt: Salt (sodium chloride) is added for flavor and electrolyte balance.
DL-Methionine: DL-methionine is an essential amino acid.
Taurine: Taurine is an amino acid that supports heart health and other bodily functions.
L-Lysine: L-lysine is an essential amino acid.
Magnesium Oxide: Magnesium oxide is a source of magnesium.
L-Tryptophan: L-tryptophan is an amino acid that can help regulate mood and sleep.
Marigold Extract (Tagetes erecta L.): Marigold extract is a source of lutein, an antioxidant that supports eye health.
Rosemary Extract: Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant.
N-Butyric Acid: N-butyric acid is a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health.
Guaranteed Analysis: Understanding the Nutritional Content
The guaranteed analysis provides a breakdown of the key nutritional components of the diet:
- Crude Protein: The protein content varies between different Renal Support formulas, typically ranging from 10.5% to 26.5% (min/max). Targeted protein levels are essential for managing kidney health.
- Crude Fat: The fat content ranges from 14.0% to 19.5% (min), providing a concentrated source of energy.
- Crude Fiber: The fiber content ranges from 3.7% to 6.3% (max), supporting digestive health.
- Moisture: The moisture content is typically around 8.0% to 10.0% (max).
- Eicosapentaenoic + Docosahexaenoic acid (EPA+DHA): The minimum level of EPA+DHA ranges from 0.24% to 0.28%, highlighting the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory and kidney-supportive properties.
- Phosphorus: Phosphorus levels are carefully controlled, with a maximum of 0.4% to 0.6%, to reduce the burden on the kidneys.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is included at a minimum of 350 IU/kg, acting as an antioxidant.
- Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is included at a minimum of 160 mg/kg, providing antioxidant support.
Varieties of Royal Canin Renal Support
Royal Canin offers several Renal Support diets tailored to different needs:
- Renal Support A (Aromatic): This formula is designed to stimulate appetite in dogs with kidney issues, featuring rectangular-shaped kibble and enhanced palatability.
- Other Renal Support Formulas: These formulas may vary in protein levels and additional ingredients to address specific needs, such as digestive support or additional antioxidants.
Benefits of Royal Canin Renal Support Diets
- Supports Kidney Health: Formulated with low phosphorus and targeted protein levels to reduce the workload on the kidneys.
- Highly Palatable: Designed to encourage eating, even in dogs with decreased appetite, through palatable formulas and unique kibble shapes.
- Promotes Kidney Function: Includes a precise antioxidant complex and fatty acids from fish oil to support overall kidney health.
- Versatile: Can be mixed with Royal Canin wet food varieties to further stimulate appetite and provide a variety of textures.
Considerations
It is important to consult with a veterinarian before starting a dog on Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support. These diets are veterinary-exclusive and are designed to be used under professional guidance. The specific formula and feeding schedule should be tailored to the individual dog's needs and health condition.