As a dog owner, it can be heartbreaking to learn that your beloved furry friend has been diagnosed with kidney failure. It is important to know what to expect and how you can cope in such a situation for both the sake of your pup and yourself. Dogs with kidney failure require special care and attention, but there are ways you can help them get through this difficult time. In this article, we will discuss dogs with kidney failure – what to expect, how you can best provide support, and other tips on how to cope during this trying period.
What are the causes of kidney failure in dogs?
The most common causes of kidney failure in dogs are underlying health issues or old age. As dogs get older, the number of kidney cells, or nephrons, reduces in number and the kidneys, therefore, lose their ability to function properly.
Some dogs may have other diseases that affect their kidneys, including conditions like nephritis, chronic kidney disease, and glomerulonephritis. In some cases, dogs can develop acute kidney failure due to certain toxins or poisons such as grape toxicity.
Additionally, dogs with kidney failure may have a history of being on certain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics such as aminoglycosides. Kidney cancer and neoplasia can also result in kidney failure in dogs.
What are the common symptoms of dogs with kidney failure?
Dogs with kidney failure may exhibit a range of symptoms, some of which may be more subtle than others. Here are some of the most common symptoms of dogs with kidney failure:
- Increased thirst and urination: One of the most noticeable symptoms of dogs with kidney failure is an increase in both thirst and urination. Dogs with kidney failure may drink more water than usual and need to go outside to urinate more frequently. Dogs with acute kidney failure however may not produce urine due to the rapid and severe damage to the kidneys.
- Decreased appetite, weight loss, and poor body condition: Dogs with kidney failure may lose their appetite and begin to lose weight over time. They may also become lethargic or seem less interested in playing or exercising. Muscle loss along the spine is common in dogs with kidney failure.
- Vomiting and diarrhea: Some dogs with kidney failure may experience digestive symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms may be caused by toxins building up in the bloodstream due to the kidney's inability to filter them out.
- Bad breath and oral ulcers: Dogs with kidney failure may develop bad breath or oral ulcers. These symptoms can be caused by a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream that affect the mouth and cause inflammation.
- Changes in behavior: Dogs with kidney failure may become irritable or restless, and they may have trouble sleeping through the night. Some dogs may also seem disoriented or confused.
How is kidney disease diagnosed in dogs?
To diagnose kidney failure in dogs, your veterinarian will conduct a physical exam as well as bloodwork and a urinalysis to assess how the kidneys are functioning. If further tests are needed, such as an X-ray or ultrasound, these can also be used to get a better view of the kidneys and any other underlying issues that may be causing the kidney failure.
Diagnosing kidney disease in dogs is a crucial step in ensuring their overall health and well-being. Veterinarians utilize a combination of clinical evaluations, blood and urine tests, and diagnostic imaging to identify any abnormalities in the dog's kidney function.
Among the commonly performed blood tests are a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry panel, which can reveal important information about the dog's kidney function, such as elevations in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels. In the high stages of kidney disease, urinary protein loss can be so significant that it lowers the protein counts in the blood (hypoproteinemia).
Furthermore, veterinarians will also recommend a urinalysis to evaluate the concentration and protein of the dog's urine, as well as to detect any possible infections or abnormal cells.
Diagnostic imaging techniques like an abdominal ultrasound, and in some cases, x-rays, provide valuable visual information on the size, shape, and texture of the kidneys and can help to diagnose kidney masses and cancer.
Through these comprehensive diagnostic measures, veterinarians are better equipped to determine the presence and severity of kidney disease in dogs, enabling the implementation of an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of each dog.
What are the treatment options for dogs with kidney failure?
Dogs with kidney failure require a multifaceted approach to therapy that focuses on several key goals. These include identifying and addressing underlying causes of kidney failure, managing concurrent conditions, preventing and treating complications, and slowing the progression of kidney damage.
Unfortunately, in many cases, there is no specific therapy available for treating kidney failure in dogs, and supportive therapy becomes the primary focus of treatment.
Dietary therapy is a very important component in managing kidney failure in dogs and is often recommended as a first step. Prescription diets designed to treat kidney failure in dogs differ significantly from maintenance diets and can play a critical role in slowing the progression of the disease.
Veterinary diets for dogs with kidney failure are typically lower in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, and higher in soluble fiber than traditional maintenance diets. It's important to note, however, that these diets are not protein-deficient. Instead, they contain high-quality protein sources that are easier for the kidneys to process.
In addition to these dietary modifications, veterinary diets for dogs with kidney failure are often supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to help support overall health and kidney function. They also tend to have a higher caloric density to help maintain healthy body weight and prevent muscle wasting.
The appropriate veterinary diet will also aid in managing hyperphosphatemia (elevated blood levels of phosphorus), hypokalemia (low blood levels of potassium), and metabolic acidosis.
It's important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a dietary plan that meets your dog's specific needs and helps manage their kidney failure. By following a carefully designed prescription diet and making other necessary lifestyle changes, you can help improve your dog's quality of life and potentially slow the progression of kidney disease.
Gastritis, proteinuria, and hypertension are common consequences of kidney failure in dogs and can cause a variety of serious health issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several medications available to help dogs manage these conditions and improve their quality of life.
Medications such as omeprazole for gastritis, ACE inhibitors for proteinuria, and medications to treat hypertension can all be used to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Omeprazole helps reduce stomach acid production in dogs with gastritis while ACE inhibitors such as benazepril work by reducing the amount of protein lost through the urine due to kidney damage caused by proteinuria.
Hypertension medications help lower blood pressure levels in dogs who suffer from high blood pressure. Each medication has its own set of risks and benefits associated with it so it is important that you speak with your veterinarian about which option may be best for your dog’s individual needs.
What is the prognosis for dogs with kidney failure?
The prognosis for dogs with kidney disease is influenced by several key factors, including the underlying cause of the disease, the severity and duration of clinical signs, the degree of renal dysfunction, and the rate of disease progression.
Additionally, certain markers such as hyperphosphatemia, anemia, low body condition score, and proteinuria can indicate more advanced and progressive kidney disease and are associated with shorter survival times.
In conclusion, kidney disease is a common and serious condition affecting many dogs. Early detection, proper diagnosis, and appropriate treatment are crucial to managing the disease and improving your dog's quality of life. By working closely with your veterinarian and following a comprehensive treatment plan that may include dietary therapy, medication, and regular monitoring, you can help slow the progression of the disease and potentially extend your dog's life. Remember, your dog's health and well-being are in your hands, so be proactive in maintaining their health and seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of kidney disease in your dog. Thanks for reading!