Kidney Problems in Dogs; Signs and Causes
Dogs’ kidneys function the same way as those of humans. They work to balance blood substances and filter wastes inform of urine. Therefore, a case of acute kidney failure can paralyze the functionality of your pet.
What Are The Causes Of Kidney Failure?
Although sometimes the triggers of Kidney or renal illness and eventually failure might not be conclusive, there are several common causes in veterinary medicine;
• One of the primary causes for this problem relates to the presence of toxic kidney damaging substances in the bloodstream of your dog.
• Given conditions that lead to the reduction or total blockage of blood flow to the kidneys, which include effects of some drugs, cardiovascular disease, anemia, thromboembolic disease, etc.
• The inflammation of kidney tissues and blockage of urine
• Progressive Diabetes and genetics
• Untreated dental disorders, etc.
Also, breeds such as the Bull Terrier, German shepherd, English Cocker Spaniels, and Samoyeds are more prone to kidney disease compared to others.
Significant Signs of Kidney Problems In dogs
Some of the first signs include;
- A reduction in water consumption rate
- The decrease in urine production/release
- Painful urination
- Vomiting
- Being unrestful/depressed
- Lack/reduction of appetite/reduction
Types of Kidney Disease
There are two types of kidney illness, and that includes chronic kidney failure and acute kidney failure.
Chronic Kidney Failure; this condition manifests over a period and could take months-years for the first symptoms.
Acute Kidney Failure; at this stage, your dog’s kidney fails suddenly and is mainly caused by urinary obstructions, poisoning or high-level of dehydration. It’s most common in old age.
Kidney Failure Treatment
One of the commonly used treatments for kidney failure in dogs is the use of fluid therapy. Through this, your vet tries to compensate for the effects of dehydration, which is a common symptom. Therefore, ensure you give your ailing dog unlimited access to fresh water.
Secondly, your vet will also provide vital information on the proper diet for your dog. Be ready to offer your furry fewer proteins and less phosphorus.
There are also specific forms of medications and therapies to boost the quality of your dog’s life. For instance, your vet might conduct a decontamination procedure to ride the toxins, perform daily urine monitoring, and have some frequent blood assessment.
Typically, the mode of treatment depends on the severity of the kidney problem.
Prevention
Although there is little you can do to prevent this problem, you can still avoid the ingestion of kidney failure trigger toxins by keeping off non-prescribed over the counter meds, keeping household poisons safe and seeking timely treatment for various conditions.
Sources: Newport Harbor Vets, Canna Pet, Newman Veterinary
