KIDNEY DISEASE

Kidney disease is any destructive process within the kidney. Kidney disease is not limited to any particular age or breed, but is one of the most common medical problems of older dogs and cats and is a leading cause of death for these pets. Your pet's kidneys filter and remove "waste materials" from the blood stream. The kidneys also regulate the volume and composition of your pet's body fluids. Signs and recognition of decreased kidney function are not evident until more than two thirds of the total kidney function has been lost. The majority of adult dogs and cats have some kidney damage present. Once kidney damage is present, regeneration of kidney tissue does not occur. Kidney damage is usually progressive. Any measure that helps prevent the disease, delays the age of occurrence and/or slows the progression of this disease, will help a pet live longer.

 

SIGNS OF KIDNEY DISEASE

If kidney disease destroys the kidney's ability to perform properly, waste materials accumulate in the blood.

Signs associated with kidney disease are:
Loss of appetite
Increased thirst
Frequent urination or no urination
Poor hair coat
Depression and/or vomiting

These signs may appear suddenly or develop slowly over time, and other disease may produce them.

 

CAUSES

Kidney disease may have many different causes, including inherited defects, infections, toxic substances and nutritional factors. Frequently, the cause cannot be determined, but with careful examination and testing, the severity of the disease can be evaluated and the best method of management prescribed.

 

HOME MANAGEMENT

Once your pet returns home, he needs special attention and care. It is very important that you provide free access to fresh, clean water. Follow instructions carefully if your pet has been prescribed medication. Your veterinarian will also recommend a well balanced diet with a reduced amount of phosphorus, sodium and containing high-quality protein. This helps prevent the accumulation of waste materials in the blood and reduces the workload on the kidney.