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My dog has kidney failure and won't eat. What treatments help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shetland Sheepdog | Female | spayed | 30 lbs

My dog is in kidney failure. Her ALT 135, ALKP 337, BUN 99 & CREA 4.8 all high. The treatment the vet has her on at home is 100 cc subconscious fluids once a day. She doesn't eat on her own anymore. So I purée a kidney support wet food, pumpkin and water. I'll give her about 2 35ml and she doesn't give me a problem. She does drink from her water bowl but not like she used to. She's on a 10 mg Pepcid a day. What would your recommend treatment be for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 9th, 2017

I think given your information you have provided this sounds like appropriate supportive care at home. Iv fluids are always better but much more expensive and not curative in the case of kidney failure. Cerenia can also be used (anti nausea medication) in end stage renal failure to keep them from becoming so nauseated they can't eat or hold down food. Dialysis is available at teaching hospitals or a few specialty hospitals around the country. I hope this helps. My best to you both.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

    Published on January 29th, 2018

    I'm so sorry to hear about Rush's kidneys. There are a number of treatments that you can consider doing at home. I will sometimes teach owners to give fluids under the skin at home which can help flush out the kidneys. I will also often given anti-nausea medications to make them feel better. There are also appetite stimulants that can help. I would definitely discuss with your vet what options you have at home. There are a number of natural supplements that you can try, but you need to get Rush eating first. I would consider finding a veterinary acupuncturist to help you. Acupuncture can often make kidney failure patients feel and eat better, so you can start natural supplements with them. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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