The kidney failure It is a very common pathology in older dogs, which can however also affect younger subjects.
It is divided into two main forms: acute and chronic, each with specific characteristics and therapeutic approaches.
Acute renal failure It is characterized by a rapid onset and can be caused by:
- Poisoning: usually due to the ingestion of toxic substances and plants, chemicals or even some drugs.
- Infections: One of the main infections that causes kidney failure is leptospirosis, a bacterial disease that affects the kidneys.
- Urinary obstructions: Urinary stones or growths can block the flow of urine, causing kidney damage that can lead, if not resolved in time, to acute kidney failure.
- Trauma: Trauma in the renal area or urinary tract can also result in this pathology.
Chronic renal failure Instead, it is a progressive condition with a slow onset, irreversible, worsening over time. It can be caused by:
- Age: As we age, there is a natural wear and tear of the kidney tissue which can result in chronic kidney failure going through various stages of severity (stage 1 – stage 5)
- Metabolic diseases: diseases such as hypertension or diabetes can, in the long term, cause degeneration of the kidney tissue and consequently chronic kidney failure.
- Genetic predisposition: in some breeds, such as the Bull Terrier and the German Shepherd, this pathology occurs more easily even in young animals, due to a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible.
How does it manifest itself?
The clinical signs of this pathology vary depending on the form and severity:
- Kidney failure acutea: usually manifests itself with vomiting, anorexia, dehydration, oliguria (reduced urine production) or anuria (lack of urine production), lethargy, tremors, breath odor of urine, ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Kidney failure chronic: depending on the severity (stage 1-2-3-4-5) there is increased thirst and urination (polyuria), dehydration, loss of appetite and weight, dull and matted fur, weakness, uremic bad breath, nausea, vomiting, ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract, systemic acidosis, anemia
How do you know if your pet has Kidney Failure?
The diagnosis can be made thanks to:
- Blood tests: the values of Creatinine, Urea Nitrogen, Glomerular Filtration Rate, but also Phosphorus and other electrolytes are taken into consideration, as well as the animal's pH (blood gas analysis), as well as the hematocrit since, in severe stages, the kidney loses its ability to produce erythropoietin and animals often show mild/severe anemia.
- Urine tests: they are used to evaluate urinary azotemia and creatinuria, in addition to total proteins and pH
- Renal ultrasound: it is a non-invasive test that allows for the evaluation of renal morphology, highlighting any structural alterations.
- Radiography: It is used to exclude any obstructions or stones
Can IR be treated?
Treatment depends on the cause and form of the disease, but it is always better to prevent or at least act in the early stages of onset to avoid or slow down progression, since the disease, in the most serious stages, only requires palliative treatments.
- Kidney failure acute: once the cause is discovered, it is necessary to act on it to avoid chronicity, and in any case support the kidney through hydration (intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy), the administration of drugs or natural remedies to control the symptoms (treatment of vomiting, gastritis and diarrhea), use of omega3 and kidney support supplements
- Kidney failure chronic: the therapy aims to slow down the progression of the disease as much as possible and to improve the animal's quality of life.
The therapy usually includes:
- Specific diet: in case of renal insufficiency, it is recommended to follow a diet low in proteins, phosphorus and sodium, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins. The diet can be homemade (prepared by a veterinary nutritionist) or commercial but specific for the pathology and must be very palatable.
- Medicines/Natural Remedies/Homeopathic Remedies: may be helpful in controlling blood pressure, reducing metabolic acidosis, and managing other symptoms such as intoxication, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- fluid therapy: is essential for maintaining hydration and supporting kidney function.
- Regular monitoring: in case of diagnosis of renal failure, it is very important to carry out periodic veterinary checks to evaluate the progression of the disease and adapt the treatment.
Can kidney failure be prevented?
For reduce the risk of kidney failure It is advisable to provide a balanced diet appropriate to the age group of our four-legged friend, favoring foods with the right protein content and low in salt; ensure constant access to water, avoiding dehydration; carry out regular veterinary checks, especially in elderly or at-risk dogs; avoid exposure to toxins or the use of drugs not prescribed by the attending veterinarian.
In conclusion…
Kidney failure in dogs is a serious condition that requires a lot of attention and carea. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, many dogs can live long, good-quality lives. If diagnosed with kidney failure, it is advisable to follow the advice of your trusted veterinarian and consult with multiple specialists, including nephrologists, nutritionists, and alternative therapy veterinarians, to manage this condition in an integrated manner.
Union BIO recommends
In the treatment of renal failure there are always drugs/supplements that reduce nausea, vomiting and that alleviate gastritis caused by systemic acidosis and excess urea. Sedagastro DOG It could be a valid aid to improve the quality of life of the animal, by treating, in a natural way, one of the symptoms that most affects the quality of life of our four-legged friend, thus avoiding, when possible, the use of drugs that could further aggravate the kidney problem.
Dr. Paola Zintu
Veterinary