Which dietary addition is recommended to support renal function in a dog with CKD?

• A. Added sugar.
• B. No change in diet.
• C. Added omega-3 fatty acids.
• D. Increased phosphorus.

Answer: (C)

Supporting renal function in CKD is helped by providing anti-inflammatory nutrients in the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce inflammatory damage in the kidneys, lower proteinuria, and may help preserve renal function over time. That’s why adding omega-3s is the best choice for a dog with CKD.

The other options don’t offer these renoprotective benefits: added sugar doesn’t support kidney health and adds unnecessary calories; not changing the diet misses an opportunity to provide kidney-supportive nutrients; increasing phosphorus can worsen CKD by promoting hyperphosphatemia and related complications, so phosphorus is usually restricted rather than increased.