Nutritional Management of Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that significantly impacts nutritional requirements, making dietary management a key element in small animal patient care. This presentation places a practical real-world emphasis on the power of nutritional intervention in kidney disease that is realistically doable for the busy private practice veterinarian while also optimizing patient care and clinical results. The presentation will equip participants with a comprehensive yet practical understanding of the physiological changes associated with renal disease and how they affect nutrient manipulation. Emphasizing the significance of IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) staging, we will explore how to assess and manage patients with suspected or confirmed kidney disease. A detailed discussion on critical nutrients, including the ongoing debate about appropriate protein levels for CKD patients, will provide insight into the evidence supporting various perspectives. Finally, we will examine current dietary strategies tailored to patients based on their IRIS stage, highlighting important considerations to optimize clinical outcomes. By the end of the session, participants will have the knowledge and tools to effectively manage nutrition in CKD patients.