Kidney disease is one of the most common illnesses likely to affect our pets yet because signs of serious renal disease only appear after 75% of kidney function has already been lost, early detection is vitally important. Once chronic kidney failure develops it cannot be reversed.
As in humans, kidneys play a vital role in your pet’s body filtering the blood to remove waste products. When kidney function is diminished waste accumulates, causing your pet to become sick.
There are two primary forms of kidney disease: acute renal disease and chronic renal disease.
- Acute renal disease (ARD) occurs suddenly and is often caused by blood loss, shock, surgical stress, trauma, severe dehydration, poisons, drugs, obstructed urine flow, infection. Even common garden plants like the lily, when eaten by cats, can cause ARD.
Chronic renal disease (CRD) occurs over a longer time. It is often a consequence of old age but some breeds of dogs and cats have an inherited tendencies coupled with nutritional factors and immune system defects. Chronic kidney disease is progressive and irreversible.
It is essential to know that early stages of kidney disease show no signs or symptoms. An increase in thirst may be the first sign of kidney failure — if you notice this, or any of the above signs, consult your veterinarian immediately.
The mean age of diagnosis for CRD is approximately seven years in dogs and nine years in cats. However, animals of any age can be affected.
How do I know if my pet has kidney disease?
Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German Shepherds are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease.
In addition to an increase in thirst and frequent urination, symptoms of kidney disease include:
- House-soiling
- Listlessness and depression
- Reduced appetite, and, with CRD, weightloss.
- Bad breath, drooling and mouth ulcers
- Vomiting and diarrhoea or constipation. In late stages, seizures can occur and the pet can become comatose.
How can I prevent kidney disease?
- Ensure your pet always has access to fresh water
- Your pet’s diet should be scientifically prepared and properly balanced. Good quality commercial dry food diets are designed to reduce many diseases, including renal disease, and it is important that you place your older pet on a properly formulated senior diet.
- Keep your pet’s teeth clean and gums healthy. Chronic dental disease can lead to chronic renal disease as there is a constant release of bacteria into the bloodstream from the infected gums.
- Keep your pet away from toxins and poisons. Chemicals like disinfectants, anti-freeze, lead paint and some human medicines will not only damage your pet’s kidneys, they are also deadly. If your pet appears unwell, seek immediate veterinary treatment.
How is Renal Disease treated?
If your dog has kidney problems, the right nutrition can positively impact your dog’s quality of life. For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the best food for your dog’s kidney health.
A prescription diet that has low levels of protein, phosphorous and sodium to reduce the workload on the kidneys may be recommended. Hills K/D, Eukanuba Renal or Royal Canin renal support is the food of choice in CKD.
More severe cases will require treatment and stabilisation in a veterinary clinic or hospital. Intravenous fluids, careful nutritional support, and medication will be needed. Once your pet’s condition has improved, home treatment will be implemented.
It is also best to seek the advice of your veterinarian. Don’t delay. The longer you wait, the more difficult to treat.
