Kidney Failure
Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, is a condition where the kidneys stop functioning normally. It can either be acute (meaning that it is severe but doesn’t happen often) or chronic (meaning that it is persistent).
Signs of Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
Dogs or cats with kidney failure may show the following symptoms:
- Increased water consumption;
- Frequent urination;
- Loss of appetite,
- Depression;
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Bad breath; and/or
- Ulcers in the mouth.
Diagnosing and Treating Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
Kidney failure in dogs and cats is typically found by evaluating the patient’s laboratory results or blood tests. A dog or cat with kidney failure has an abnormal level of creatinine in their blood.
To determine the extent of kidney failure, a veterinary specialist typically performs an ultrasound to determine the size of the kidney. Then the veterinary specialist determines the best course of care.
Typically if the disease is severe, the veterinary specialist will give the dog or cat large quantities of fluid through an IV. This helps clean out the kidneys so they can begin functioning normally again. With this therapy, either the kidneys will resume functioning for a few weeks to a few years or they will resume functioning during the treatment but fail soon afterwards.
After the kidneys begin functioning normally, the goal is to keep them functioning as long as possible. This is done with a special diet, fluids, and various medications.
Consultation for Kidney Failure in Dogs and Cats
If you think your pet has kidney failure, please call VETMED today to make a consultation appointment.