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While efforts are made to answer all questions as quickly as possible, if an immediate answer is required or if your pet is in need of urgent or emergency care, contact your pet's veterinarian immediately.
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It may be necessary to consult your pet's veterinarian regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your pet's symptoms or medical condition.
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Kidney disease in dogs and cats occurs when there is progressive damage to various structures of the kidney that remove and filter waste products from the body. This damage may involve the nephrons and/or the glomeruli. When these structures are destroyed, toxic by-products may build up in your pet's bloodstream, leading to clinical signs of kidney disease.
Kidney disease often results in biochemical changes in your pet's body that lead to general symptoms of illness and malaise. Since the kidneys produce hormones and enzymes such as erythropoetin and renin, when the kidneys fail, your pet may develop anemia, high blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances. Calcium imbalance in your pet's body and thin bones may also result from kidney failure.
Key facts about kidney disease in dogs and cats
Causes of kidney disease in dogs and cats
Kidney disease in pets can be due to a variety of factors ranging from toxin exposure (such as antifreeze), trauma, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection (i.e. leptospirosis, Lyme Disease), and immune-mediated causes. These immune-mediated causes may be secondary to chronic skin disease, intestinal disease, and hormonal problems of the adrenal glands and pancreas. Periodontal or dental disease may also cause secondary kidney damage. Genetic causes may also be involved. Cases where underlying causes of kidney disease are not identified are called idiopathic.
Pets most at risk for kidney disease
Kidney disease may occur in any age or breed of pet, but the incidence is increased in middle-aged and senior pets. Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited form of kidney disease often occurring in younger pets, and may be seen in Abyssinian cats, Terriers, and Beagles. Siamese cats also seem to have a higher incidence of kidney disease.
Unfortunately, in most cases there is no known way to repair your pet's damaged kidneys; however, diet, medications, and fluid injection therapy can help slow down the progression of your pet's kidney disease.