What You Need to Know About Kidney Failure in Dogs

Kidney failure in dogs is the fourth most prevalent disease among this type of pet. It occurs when the kidneys are unable to carry out their functions either partially or completely, and it is a serious problem for dogs. It is also fairly common, so it is useful for owners to understand kidney failure and its stages, so that they can deal with it decisively and effectively.

What is kidney failure and what are its different stages in dogs?

Kidney failure in dogs involves the loss of the kidneys' basic functions. These are vital organs in the body and their main roles include the following:

• The removal of waste and toxins from the body through urine; in other words, they are responsible for filtering the blood.
• They maintain the balance of fluids and minerals, thereby preventing dehydration.
• They produce different substances that are essential for the body to function, such as certain hormones and vitamins.

As a result, when kidney failure occurs it is accompanied by changes that have a very negative impact on pets' quality of life. The reasons why this type of failure may occur include serious circulatory problems or blood loss. Deficiencies in kidney function can also occur due to the action of toxic substances and the use of certain medicines.

Chronic kidney failure

Kidney failure is something that persists over time, which means the kidney gradually loses its functions. This does not generally affect younger dogs, as it develops slowly and progressively, damages the tissues and causes them not to function properly. In fact, it is most commonly found in older dogs, although high blood pressure or diabetes can speed up its onset. Some of the signs that may alert owners are:

• Vomiting.
• Excessive thirst.
• Anaemia.
• Kidneys that are smaller than normal.
• Others.

Acute kidney failure

If you are dealing with acute kidney failure in dogs, you should know that it appears suddenly. This means that the kidney can stop working without warning, and it affects both young and old dogs. The important thing in these cases is to detect it in time; otherwise, it may become chronic or prove fatal. The symptoms in this case are as follows:

• Loss of appetite.
• Changes in the urination pattern. We are not only talking about the colour of urine in kidney failure, but also the fact that the animal may not urinate or may urinate more than normal.
• Pain in the abdominal area.

How can you tell whether a dog has kidney failure?

Depending on the type of kidney failure involved and its stage, the symptoms and signs can vary widely and be difficult to notice. Therefore, if there is any suspicion that there may be a kidney problem, the best thing to do is to go to the vet. Some of the signs that should alert owners are:

• Weight loss.
• Excessive tiredness, lethargy, reluctance to move and a hunched posture.
• Eating or drinking less than normal.
• Vomiting.
• Presence of blood in the urine.
• Bad breath.
• Diarrhoea.
• Poor coat.
• Pain in the kidney area.
• Pale mucous membranes and anaemia.
• Ulcers or sores in the mouth.
• Disorientation.
• A marked increase or reduction in the urge to urinate.

Some of these symptoms are associated with the animal ageing, but a blood test can identify whether there is kidney failure and make it possible to treat it in time.

Treatment for kidney failure in dogs

Taking care of pets' diet is very important in order to avoid these problems. Above all, owners should be aware of kidney failure and prohibited foods, which can help to prevent it. The following should be avoided:

• Salt.
• Vegetable oils.
• Bones.
• Liver.
• Dairy products.
• Pulses.
• Oily fish.

In fact, dogs with this problem usually have a specific diet that protects the kidneys and helps to slow the progression of the disease. It will also help to improve their appetite. Vets are best placed to advise on what type of dog food to offer in order to take special care of pets' kidneys. As a basis, it is worth knowing that the diet should be high in antioxidants, fatty acids and protein.

Other treatments

As well as making changes to the diet, other treatments can also be used, such as:

• Fluid therapy. If the disease is in its early stages, it is necessary to increase water intake. This can be done through food, but as the disease progresses, or if the animal becomes dehydrated, it may be necessary to administer fluids intravenously. What does this achieve? The dog will maintain proper electrolyte levels, which will prevent muscle weakness and the increased heart rate that can occur if potassium decreases, for example.
• Supplements. They can be used as the sole treatment or as a complement. Everything will depend on the stage of kidney failure, although the objective will be the same: to achieve a balance of vitamins, electrolytes and fatty acids.

Can it be prevented?

It is always easier to apply preventive measures than to treat a disease. So, how can you help a pet keep its kidneys healthy?

• Keep it away from toxic substances such as poisons, medicines and certain plants.
• If the dog has a bacterial infection that alters the normal functioning of the kidneys, it is necessary for a vet to keep a close watch.
• Avoid letting more than eight hours pass without it relieving itself.
• Make sure it drinks the amount of water it needs and follows a balanced diet suited to its build, breed and size.

At Farmaciasdirect we recommend giving a specialised dog food for dogs with kidney failure. However, vets are the most appropriate professionals to monitor pets, and it is advisable to have regular check-ups to keep any illness under control.