Chronic kidney disease in dogs
Chronic kidney disease in dogs
What is kidney disease in dogs?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as any abnormality of one or both kidneys that has been present for several months. CKD affects about 1 in every 10 dogs [1].
Your dog’s kidneys are vital to removing waste substances from the bloodstream and maintaining the balance of fluid and minerals within the body. But if the kidneys can’t do their job, the result could be life-threatening for your dog.
What causes kidney disease in dogs?
There are two main categories of kidney disease in dogs: acute and chronic. Signs of acute kidney disease usually manifest over a week or month’s time, while chronic kidney disease is defined as kidney damage that has been present for at least three months. Common causes of kidney disease & its progression include:
Early detection of kidney failure in your dog
What are the signs & symptoms of kidney disease in dogs?
The signs of early-stage kidney disease are not visible. On diagnosis, CKD has already been present for some time but may be managed with the help of vet-approved dog food for kidney disease. Signs of late-stage kidney disease tend to be similar but are far more noticeable to pet parents.
Signs of kidney disease
Signs of kidney disease
Nutrition for dogs with kidney disease
If your dog has kidney problems, the right nutrition may be able to make a positive impact on their quality of live and potentially even lengthen their lifespan. Specially formulated nutrition for dogs with kidney disease can be beneficial by having less protein and phosphorous than other pet foods. Phosphorus restriction can lessen the severity of the symptoms and progression of kidney damage, while controlled, high-quality proteins can help restore normal acid-base levels.
Nutrition for dogs with kidney disease
If your dog has kidney problems, the right nutrition may be able to make a positive impact on their quality of live and potentially even lengthen their lifespan. Specially formulated nutrition for dogs with kidney disease can be beneficial by having less protein and phosphorous than other pet foods. Phosphorus restriction can lessen the severity of the symptoms and progression of kidney damage, while controlled, high-quality proteins can help restore normal acid-base levels.
Related articles
How Food Allergies Can Affect Your Dog
Learn about some common signs that your dog might be allergic or intolerant to certain foods and what you can do to help get them the nutrition they need.
Cancer in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatments
Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cancer and tumors in dogs, providing pet owners with valuable information and resources when dealing with canine cancer.
Watching your puppy's weight
Puppy and pet dieting, cat nutrition and dog nutrition information from Hill's Pet
Excessive Thirst in Dogs: Common Causes & When to See the Vet
Have you noticed your dog drinking lots of water all of a sudden? Excessive thirst in dogs, also known as polydipsia, is a common observation amongst dog parents, and one you shouldn't ignore.
References: 1Lulich JP, Osborne CA, O’Brien TD, Polzin DJ. Feline renal failure: questions, answers, questions. Compend Contin Educ Pract Vet. 1992;14(2):127–153. Brown SA. Renal dysfunction in small animals. The Merck Veterinary Manual website.