Kidney disease is a common health issue that can affect both dogs and cats, particularly as they age. Some toxins can also damage the kidneys – such as ingestion of any part of a lily by cats.
While it is more prevalent in cats, dogs can also develop kidney disease, making regular check-ups with your vet essential for early detection and prevention.
Symptoms of kidney disease in cats and dogs
Recognising kidney disease symptoms in your pet is crucial for early detection and intervention. By being aware of the signs, you can provide timely care and improve your pet’s quality of life.
- Increased drinking and urination: Pets with kidney disease may drink more water than usual and urinate frequently.
- Nausea and vomiting: Pets may experience episodes of nausea and vomiting, leading to poor appetite and weight loss.
- Lethargy: Dogs and cats with kidney disease may appear tired and lack energy.
- Dehydration: Due to increased water loss, pets may become dehydrated, resulting in dry gums and reduced skin elasticity.
- Blood in the urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a sign of kidney disease.
- High blood pressure: Hypertension can occur in pets with kidney disease and may lead to additional complications.
- Trouble regulating body temperature: Pets may struggle to regulate their body temperature and show signs of fever or shivering.
- Anaemia: Kidney disease can lead to a decrease in red blood cells, causing anaemia and weakness.
- Gastric ulcers: Ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract may develop due to kidney disease.
- Seizures: In severe cases, pets may experience seizures as a result of kidney disease.
- Depression: Dogs and cats may exhibit a low mood and reduced interest in their surroundings.
It’s important to note that these symptoms may worsen as the condition progresses. If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it’s crucial to consult your vet for a thorough examination and proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis and treatment
Routine vet check-ups and diagnostic tests are essential for the early detection and diagnosis of kidney disease. Blood and urine tests can help determine the health of your pet’s kidneys and identify any abnormalities that may indicate kidney disease. These tests can also help assess kidney function and rule out other potential causes of similar symptoms.
The treatment options for kidney disease may vary based on the severity and stage of the disease. Treatments focus on supporting kidney function, alleviating symptoms, and maintaining overall well-being.
Some common treatment options for kidney disease in cats and dogs include:
- Intravenous fluid therapy: This involves providing fluids directly into the bloodstream to maintain hydration and support kidney function.
- Medication: Depending on the specific needs of your pet, medications such as blood pressure regulators, phosphate binders, or medications to address nausea and vomiting may be prescribed.
- Specialised renal support diet: Your vet may recommend a specialised diet that is low in nutrients such as protein, calcium, sodium, and phosphorus. This diet helps reduce the workload on the kidneys and minimise the buildup of waste products.
It is important to work closely with your vet to develop an individualised treatment plan for your pet. The treatment plan may include a combination of these approaches and can be adjusted based on your pet’s response and progress.
Regular monitoring and follow-up tests are essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment plan and make any necessary adjustments. Your vet will be able to guide you on how often follow-up tests should be performed based on your pet’s specific needs.
Early detection is key
By working closely with your vet and staying vigilant for the symptoms mentioned above, you can ensure prompt recognition of kidney disease in your beloved dog or cat, leading to timely intervention and improved outcomes.
Blood tests are also a useful diagnostic tool for early detection. Some cats and dogs are born with kidney disease, but it is more commonly seen in animals as age, so having regular senior health checks with blood tests are strongly recommended. Knowing your pet’s kidney status as they age is also useful as it dictates what sorts of medications we can and can’t use, especially for analgesia.
If you are ever concerned about any symptoms your pet may be experiencing, please get in touch with us. The Bryants Road Vet Clinic in Loganholme is open six days a week, and you can book an appointment by calling 07 3801 1744 or via our online booking system.