Dogs with kidney failure suffer from an inability of the kidneys to remove waste products from the blood. These animals may still be able to produce urine, yet the body is not effectively eliminating toxins. Chronic kidney failure happens over time and dogs often tolerate the condition for quite a while before developing clear symptoms. It is often brought on by the normal aging process or underlying medical conditions. In contrast, the acute form of kidney failure has a rapid onset and is usually very severe. While there are many causes of kidney or renal failure in dogs, some of the more common are infection, blood clots, antifreeze poisoning, dehydration, kidney tumors and congestive heart failure.
Common signs shown by dogs with kidney failure of the chronic type are increased water intake and more frequent urination. These both occur as the body attempts to flush out waste products from the bloodstream that are normally removed by the kidneys. These dogs are often dehydrated, drink water excessively, experience weight loss, exhibit breath odor and have small or abnormal kidneys. This condition produces progressive kidney damage over a period of months or years and gradually causes general weakness and lack of energy.
Chronic kidney failure can usually be treated successfully when caught early through blood tests. A healthy diet using quality food and supplements is often helpful and plenty of fresh water should always be available. Severe cases will require medical attention and possibly hospitalization.
Dogs with kidney failure that is acute create more of an emergency situation due to the fact that the kidneys suddenly stop functioning properly. They may experience high blood pressure, heart failure and possibly death in a relatively short period of time. These dogs usually produce little or no urine, do not want to drink water and act very sluggish. Vomiting and diarrhea are also symptomatic. Acute kidney failure typically requires treatments such as intravenous fluid therapy, dialysis, dietary management and antibiotics.
The prognosis for dogs with kidney failure is highly dependent on the type, the stage at which the condition is caught, the dog’s previous health and the degree of proper care and treatment. Maintaining a consistently healthy and active dog through diet, supplements and exercise is always beneficial to the physical condition of the dog throughout its life.
