Overview:
When a dog is diagnosed with heart disease, working with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan that includes dietary changes is essential. The right dog food can help manage the symptoms of heart disease and improve your dog’s overall health. Here are some expert recommendations for the best dog food for heart disease.
1. Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d:
Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d is a prescription dog food designed specifically for dogs with heart disease. It is formulated with reduced sodium levels to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure, and it contains high levels of L-carnitine and taurine to support heart function. This dog food also contains omega-3 fatty acids to support healthy circulation and reduce inflammation.
2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac:
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac is another prescription dog food formulated specifically for dogs with heart disease. It contains reduced sodium levels to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure, and it is enriched with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids to support heart health. This dog food is also designed to be highly digestible, making it a good choice for dogs with digestive issues.
3. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Early Care:
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Early Care is a prescription dog food formulated to support dogs with heart disease and kidney problems. It contains reduced sodium levels to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure, and it also contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids to support heart health. This dog food is enriched with antioxidants and essential nutrients to support kidney function.
4. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula:
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is a non-prescription dog food formulated with high-quality protein and wholesome grains to support overall health. It contains essential vitamins and minerals to support heart health and is enriched with Omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy circulation and reduce inflammation. This dog food is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
5. Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 7+ Chicken and Rice Formula:
Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 7+ Chicken and Rice Formula is a non-prescription dog food formulated with high-quality protein and a blend of antioxidants to support overall health. It contains omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy circulation and reduce inflammation, and it is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals to support heart health. This dog food is also designed to be easily digestible, making it a good choice for dogs with digestive issues.
Best Dog Food For Heart Disease
When choosing a dog food for a dog with heart disease, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- Sodium levels: Dog food with reduced sodium levels can help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure, which are common heart disease symptoms.
- Protein levels: Dogs with heart disease may require higher protein levels to support muscle function and prevent muscle wasting.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids can support healthy circulation and reduce inflammation, benefiting dogs with heart disease.
- Digestibility: Dogs with heart disease may have digestive issues, so it is important to choose dog food that is easy to digest.
- Prescription vs. non-prescription: Prescription dog foods are specifically formulated for dogs with heart disease and may be more effective in managing symptoms. However, non-prescription dog foods can also be a good choice if they meet the nutritional needs of dogs with heart disease.
What Facts Should Be Kept In Mind While Selecting The Best Food For Your Dog?
It’s important to work with your veterinarian to develop a dietary plan that meets your dog’s specific needs. In addition to choosing the right dog food, you may need to make other dietary changes, such as reducing treats, avoiding table scraps, and providing plenty of fresh water.
You should monitor your dog’s weight and body condition regularly. Dogs with heart disease may have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, so adjusting their diet as needed is vital to prevent weight gain or loss.
Providing your dog with the proper diet is vital for managing heart disease and improving its quality of life. With the appropriate diet and veterinary care, many dogs with heart disease can live happy, healthy lives.
Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, the best dog food for heart disease depends on your dog’s needs. Prescription dog foods such as Hill’s Prescription Diet h/d and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac are specifically formulated for dogs with heart disease. They may be the most effective in managing symptoms. However, non-prescription dog foods such as Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula and Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult 7+ Chicken and Rice Formula can also be good choices if they meet the nutritional needs of dogs with heart disease.
