What are the symptoms of chronic kidney failure in dogs?

It’s very common to associate kidney problems with felines, isn’t it? However, did you know that symptoms of chronic kidney failure can also affect dogs?

The disease is characterized by the inability of the kidneys to perform physiological functions, such as eliminating harmful substances and filtering the blood – some of the most important in the body. Next, learn what the symptoms of chronic kidney failure are, how the diagnosis is made and what is the appropriate treatment click here.

What is chronic kidney failure?

First of all, you need to better understand what chronic kidney failure in dogs is . For this, it is necessary to understand the role that the kidneys play in the organism of our pets.

The filtration performed by these organs is responsible for cleaning the blood. In other words, they work like a filter that removes impurities. At the end of the process, they are eliminated through the urine.

When this filtering fails, the symptoms of chronic kidney failure manifest, compromising the general well-being of the dog. After all, in addition to cleaning the blood, the kidneys are responsible for maintaining nutrients in the body, regulating the internal temperature and producing hormones.

Kidney failure in dogs occurs when the pet’s kidneys cannot perform these basic activities. The picture becomes chronic when the malfunction ceases to be punctual and becomes present in everyday life.

Kidney failure: what causes the disease?

With symptoms of chronic kidney failure, the animal loses the ability to save water in the body and filter the blood, with compromised health. The consequences are diverse. However, what causes kidney problems in dogs?

The development of this imbalance can occur due to genetic inheritance, be related to the pet’s age or be a consequence of other diseases already. In general, the main causes for this kidney problem in dogs are:

• old age degeneration;
• genetic diseases;
• consequence of infections, such as leptospirosis;
• heart problems;
• presence of parasites;
• ingestion of toxic products.

It is also important to know that this type of kidney disease in dogs can affect all breeds. However, some are more prone than others. Check out the list of those most prone to developing the disease:

• Poodle;
• Bull Terrier;
• Lhasa Apso;
• Pug;
• German Shepherd;
• Beagle;
• Rottweiler.

Regardless of the origin of the problem, the disease must always be taken seriously. Therefore, it is essential to know the symptoms of chronic kidney failure and keep an eye on the well-being of the furry.

What are the symptoms of chronic kidney failure?

Now that you know what causes kidney failure in dogs , it’s time to know the symptoms of the disease. First of all, understand the following: manifestations may vary according to the case.

In this sense, it is possible that they appear from small changes in the dog’s behavior to other more serious health conditions , easier to observe. Know the main symptoms of kidney disease in dogs:

• increased water intake;
• increased volume of urine;
• loss of appetite;
• ulcers in the mouth and nose;
• vomiting;
• weight loss;
• breath with a strong odor;
• convulsions.

It is worth noting that these symptoms are not exclusive to kidney failure. That is, if you notice some of these signs in the furry, the problem may be another. Therefore, to identify the origin of the symptoms and arrive at a diagnosis, it is essential that the pet undergoes specific tests.

Diagnosis and treatment

First, when noticing any of the symptoms of chronic kidney failure, take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. The earlier the diagnosis is made, the better the treatment results.

Your pet must be examined by a trusted professional. In addition to urine tests, blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound may be ordered for a more accurate result.

After diagnosis, treatment needs to be started as soon as possible. A series of measures must be taken to help improve the kidney, seeking full recovery of the pet’s quality of life. Know the main care involved in the treatment:

• hydration;
• food supplementation;
• special diet with pasty foods;
• hormone replacement;
• medication to prevent vomiting.

Is there a cure for kidney failure in dogs?

Unfortunately, chronic kidney failure has no cure. Incidentally, in more advanced cases of the disease, hospitalization is necessary for intensive monitoring. After all, as the animal suffers from imbalance on a daily basis, it will need assistance throughout its life.

Therefore, the most important thing is that, even with the symptoms of chronic renal failure, the maximum quality of life is provided to the pet. Talk to the veterinarian to define a healthy diet and take all necessary precautions.

We hope you understood what the main symptoms of chronic kidney failure in dogs are. For more information on dog health, keep an eye out for Petz blog articles