Kidney disease is a common condition in dogs, especially seniors. If your dog has this disease, know that you’re not alone and that our veterinarians are here to support. The good news is that it’s treatable, but early intervention is a real game changer. If you notice the signs, book an appointment with one of our many trusted veterinarians in neighborhoods across the nation.
Find a Veterinarian Near You > Here is all you need to know about kidney disease as a dog owner.
What Are Some Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs?
If you have a dog, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of kidney disease. These symptoms can manifest differently across dogs. So, it’s important to be aware of the full range of common symptoms.
Urinary Issues
Kidney disease can cause serious problems with your dog’s urination. Kidneys that do not function properly won’t be able to process waste out of the bloodstream as efficiently, resulting in decreased urination. However, increased urination can also occur in some cases. It’s essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible if your pet shows any substantial changes in their urination-related behaviors. There are some specific red flags to watch out for when it comes to your dog’s urination habits:
General Malaise
If your dog has kidney issues, they may feel generally unwell, which can manifest in various ways. Some of the most common problems are nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, frequent whining and whimpering, and any of the following symptoms:
Anemia due to low red blood cell levels, which often causes fatigue
Back pain
Difficulty sleeping and restlessness
Excessive scratching and itchiness
Excessive sleepiness
“Drunken” behavior
Lack of appetite
Lack of interest in activities that your pet used to enjoy
Weight loss
In some cases, kidney disease is diagnosed at annual wellness checkups. So it’s essential to make sure that your dog visits a veterinarian at least once a year.
Is Kidney Failure Typically Acute or Chronic?
The answer to this question depends entirely on what’s causing your dog’s renal failure. If a toxin or bacterial infection causes it, it will often be acute. On the other hand, if the cause of your dog’s kidney issues is old age or the development of cancer, the progression is likely to be more chronic. In any case, kidney disease is most effectively treated in the early stages of its progression.
What Are the Causes of Kidney Disease in Dogs?
While there are many potential causes of kidney disease in dogs, issues with your pet’s diet are among the most common causes. However, exposure to toxins is another common cause of kidney disease that you should be aware of. Luckily, there are ways that you can reduce your pet’s exposure to potential causes of kidney disease unrelated to aging.
What If Your Dog Already Has Kidney Disease?
Even if your dog already has a problem with their kidneys, that doesn’t necessarily mean there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the disease from worsening.
Modifying your pet’s diet can make it possible to significantly increase your dog’s longevity. Here are a few dietary tips that may help you increase your pet’s life expectancy:
Access to fresh water at all times.
Access to all of the nutrients needed to fight their kidney disease.
B vitamins, iron, vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin C
Avoid excess intake of sodium, potassium, and other metals that can exacerbate kidney issues.
How Can Canine Kidney Disease Be Treated?
If your dog has kidney disease, there are several treatment options that are available, and the best course of action will vary significantly from one dog to another. Our veterinarians typically will use a combination of dietary modifications and medications. Usually, this involves a drug that is designed to lower blood pressure, such as amlodipine. A second medication to treat the kidney disease directly is generally given. An example of such a medication is benazepril.
What Is the Best Diet for a Dog with Kidney Disease?
If you have a dog with kidney disease, their diet is likely to play a crucial role in the prognosis of the condition. Luckily, a skilled veterinarian with experience in treating kidney disease can make it easy to determine the right diet for your pet. You’ll typically want to choose a diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals, contains the right amount of healthy proteins, and has a proper balance of all essential nutrients. Also, many of our veterinarians will prescribe a special veterinary diet which is designed to meet the needs of pets with kidney disease.
Why Should You Choose a Thrive Pet Healthcare Veterinarian to Treat Your Dog’s Kidney Disease?
If your dog needs veterinary care for kidney disease or any other ailment, you can rest assured that we offer high-quality, trusted care. Not only does this mean that we’ll be able to improve your pet’s longevity and physical health, but it also means that we’re the best choice when it comes to your dog’s quality of life. Our veterinarians have extensive experience with a wide range of canine ailments, including kidney disease. So we’ll be able to develop a treatment protocol that is tailored to the unique needs of your dog.
