Nutritional approach using homemade diets in a dogs with concurrent chronic kidney disease and pancreatitis

Abstract

This undergraduate thesis examines the role of individualized homemade diets in the nutritional management of patients with coexisting pathologies for which no appropriate commercial dietary options are available. In this particular instance, the two coexisting conditions are chronic kidney disease and chronic pancreatitis. The significance of these cases lies in the fact that their respective nutritional strategies are typically antagonistic, particularly with regard to protein and fat intake. Carbohydrates remain the only macronutrient that can be used without restriction in both scenarios, underscoring the importance of precise formulation and dietary balance. In this case, on top of the medical management, a nutritional strategy was implemented involving a phosphorus-restricted, moderately protein-restricted, and low to moderate fat home-cooked diet formulated under veterinary supervision. Nutritional reassessment was performed monthly with body weight and biochemical follow-up. The use of individualised home-prepared diets allowed better control of comorbidities, particularly in terms of palatability and gastrointestinal tolerance. This approach is not only beneficial but also essential (and sometimes the only viable option) when no suitable commercial diets are available to meet the specific nutritional requirements imposed by the coexistence of both conditions. These cases highlight the importance of customised dietary approaches in managing complex canine patients with multiple chronic diseases and illustrate the practical feasibility and positive clinical impact of homemade dies in nutritional interventions.