When healthy, the kidneys perform several key functions and remove waste products from the body in the form of urine. Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, is the inability of the kidneys to function properly.
Kidney failure is described as "chronic" or "acute". Chronic failure means that the kidneys can no longer perform their crucial functions of excreting waste products, regulating the chemical composition of body fluids, and producing hormones. Kidney function decreases slowly, which means the physical signs of failure may appear gradually.
Acute is characterized by an abrupt or sudden decline in kidney function that leads to changes in body chemistry, including alterations in fluid and mineral balances. These changes negatively affect almost every system in the body. The physical signs are more dramatic because kidney function declines quickly.
What are the causes of this failure in dogs?
There are many causes that may include:
* Age
* Viral, fungal, or bacterial infections
* Parasites
* Cancer
* Amyloidosis (cause by abnormal deposits of a certain type of protein in the kidney)
* Inflamation
* Trauma
* Toxic reaction to poisons or medications
* Congenital and inherited disorders
What type of pet is most susceptible to such disease?
Older dogs and cats are more likely to have kidney disease than younger pets. Cats and small dogs show early signs of chronic failure at 10 to 14 years of age, while large dogs may experience much earlier.
Cats have this disease more frequently than dogs. Certain breeds of dogs (such as the soft-coated wheaten terrier, Lhasa apso, shih tzu, basenji, and Norwegian elkhound) and cats (such as the Persian, Himalayan, Siamese, and Abyssinian) are more prone to developing kidney problems. But all breeds of dogs and cats can be affected, and at any age.
What are the physical signs my pet might experience?
Any of the following signs may indicate:
*Excessive drinking of water
*Increased urination
*Lethargy
*Vomiting
*Bad Breath
*Not eating for a day or more
*Weakness
*Lack of coordination when walking
*Depression
*Weight Loss of wasting of muscle tissue
How can I prevent this in my pet?
Most commonly, pets develop this kind of disease as they age because their kidneys "wear out". In this situation, it is not possible to prevent the failure, although it is possible to treat it.
Outdoor dogs and cats are at greater risk because they are exposed to antifreeze more frequently. Indigestion of even a small amount of antifreeze can lead to acute failure and death.
Dog and cat breeds that are more likely to have hereditary kidney disease should not be used for breeding if they show signs of kidney disease. These breeds should be monitored for changes in their kidneys at an early age.
How is this treated?
Tests are necessary to diagnose chronic and acute failure and rule out other diseases. Blood and urine samples are used to test various kidney functions and make sure that infection is not the cause of the physical signs of disease.
Your veterinarian can differentiate between chronic and acute failure based on your pet's history, physical examinations, and laboratory testing. A kidney biopsy may be necessary in some cases. Chronic kidney failure is not reversible, but your veterinarian can manage the physical signs of the disease. Pets may not respond to treatment at all or may live another few months or even years.
Acute is potentially reversible with aggressive treatment. Both chronic and acute can be life-threatening conditions requiring hospitalization. Treatment may include:
*Intravenous fluids
*A special diet to decrease protein and salt intake
*Medication for high blood pressure
*Hospitalization and supportive care
*Control of vomiting and gastrointestinal problems with diet and medications
*Medications for anemia (decreased red-blood-cell production)
*Potassium supplements
*Medications to reduce phosphorus levels in the blood
After your pet leaves the hospital, your veterinarian will repeat blood tests and urinalyses to monitor your pet's condition. Be sure to administer any prescribed medications and feed your pet as directed. You may need to administer fluids under your pet's skin at home. Your veterinarian can provide instructions if this become necessary. Following instructions and working closely with your veterinarian will give your pet a better quality of life and may help prolong his life.
This is a serious medical condition. Whether the disease is acute or chronic, it is typically related to the cause. Work closely with your veterinarian and follow instructions for your pet's diet and medications.
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Emy Atijera is an advocate and a volunteer of "Healthy Pets Make People Happy", an organization of more than 750 dedicated community members who come from all walks of life to donate thousands of hours of their time in helping thousands of animals in different areas of the Philippines.
http://peoplewithhappypets.blogspot.com