Does a dog with congestive heart failure need low sodium food?

Question

What sodium level (dry matter basis) is recommended for a dog who had congestive heart failure? Just wondering for the future if needed. Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 4 years and 11 months old | 17 lbs

Liz DeWandeler, DVM · Accepted Answer

What a great question! The most recent research indicates that dogs with CHF that are doing well usually do not need a sodium restricted diet. The most important thing is to keep them eating well, and salt increases palatability of most foods. However, a pet that is decompensating may benefit from a sodium-restricted diet. The prescription diets for heart disease typically have around a 0.10% salt content by dry matter.

Does a dog with congestive heart failure need low sodium food?

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