One of the most common diseases in older pets is kidney disease. This may be a stressful time for your family but with the assistance of your veterinarian and a few helpful tips, your pet can live a long, happy, and healthy life.
What is Kidney Disease?
The kidneys filter and remove waste materials from the blood and help regulate body fluids. Kidney Disease occurs when the kidneys fail to perform these functions properly and waste accumulates in the blood.
Signs of Kidney Disease
Signs usually do not appear until more than 2/3 of kidney function has been lost. Pets over 6 years old should be screened for kidney disease before signs of disease appear.
These signs are:
- loss of appetite, increased thirst, vomiting, or diarrhea
Causes of Kidney Disease
Acute kidney disease is a rapid decline in kidney function, often result of poisoning, shock, blood loss or other diseases.
Chronic kidney disease can result from age, nutritional factors, and breed or hereditary tendencies.
Slowing the Progression
Kidney failure may be stopped and many pets can recover completely once the underlying problem is resolved.
Home Care
- Give your pet special care and attention
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully.
- Feed your pet only the recommended food every day and speak to your veterinarian before changing your pet’s medication or feeding regimen.
Make sure to monitor your pet’s weight, activity, thirst, and general condition regularly. Inform your vet of any unexpected changes. Provide free access to fresh clean water.
Proper nutrition is essential in fighting against chronic kidney disease. Your veterinarian will recommend a well balanced diet with reduced amounts of phosphorous, salt, high-quality protein and higher amounts of fiber to reduce kidney workload. As always if you are ever suspicious of something, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
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