Purina Dog Food for Kidney Failure

Older dogs are more predisposed to kidney failure.

Dogs, like humans, are prone to increased illness with advanced age. In the case of older dogs, this includes kidney failure and other kidney-related issues. Numerous dog food manufacturers have products that help combat kidney failure and disease. Purina offers its special Canine NF dog food formula, available in cans and bags.

NF Kidney Function

According to Purina, its line of NF Kidney Function canine formula aims to offer dogs "complete and balanced nutrition for adult maintenance." The line of pet food is low in phosphorus, sodium and protein, but features added potassium and is a source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Food Objectives

Purina Canine NF Kidney Function dog formula combats kidney failure by decreasing the production of nitrogenous waste products. By featuring less sodium than standard dog food, Canine NF Kidney Function, according to Purina, "helps compensate for the diseased kidney's inability to regulate this important mineral."

Other Benefits

Though its primary function is to combat kidney disease and failure, Purina's Canine NF Kidney Function also helps tackle renal failure, hypertension, heart failure and hepatic disease in older dogs. Please consult a veterinarian about how to better combat these specific conditions in dogs.

Price

As of April 2010, Purina Canine NF Kidney Function costs about $50 for two dozen 12.5-ounce cans, $45 for an 18-pound bag of dry food and $70 for a 34-pound bag. These prices vary from retailer to retailer, though purchasing Canine NF Kidney Function in bulk likely will lower the cost.

Availability and Dosage

Purina Canine NF Kidney Function is available through numerous online retailers, including Purina's official site, as well as most major pet-related supply and food stores. Once kidney disease/failure is diagnosed in a pet, a licensed veterinarian also can order this food or direct pet owners to the nearest retailer. Though recommended feeding instructions are included on each bag of Purina NF Kidney Function, it's best to get dosage instructions specifically from a licensed vet because these animal professionals can better determine the proper allotment of food, based on factors like age, breed, size and severity of kidney condition.

References

• Purina Food for Dogs
• Purina Veterinary Diets
• Caring for an Older Dog