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Does dry food cause kidney disease in pets? What are the real causes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

So I just want to make sure understand; will feeding a dry diet to a dog or cat cause kidney disease? What exactly are the causes of kidney disease? thanks!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 24th, 2017

No, this is absolutely not correct to say that. kidney failure can be cause by various reasons but in most cases the exact reason is unknown. when kidney failure is already present, dry food and food with high protein levels can cause the kidney failure to get worse faster.

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 24th, 2017

    The causes of kidney disease is very complex and no direct link between the type of diet, cause and effect has been determined. Once developed kidney disease can be managed by diet change and increased fluid intake to compensate for the reduced circulation in the kidneys but feeding such diets from an early age is not recommended as they are very restricted and not suitable for normal growing or active pets. Toxins, inflammation, infections and increasing age are contributory factors but in many cases the original damage can occur months to years before the signs of disease appear

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