7 signs your dog may have kidney disease
Early diagnosis could help your older dog live a more comfortable and longer life.
Chronic kidney disease is a common condition for middle age to older dogs. It is also known as renal disease.
Chronic kidney disease is most often caused by age-related degeneration of the kidney tissue.
Less commonly it is caused by ingesting a toxin like raisins, or cysts within the kidneys themselves. This is referred to as acute kidney disease as sudden damage occurs rather than disease developing over time.
Chronic kidney disease cannot be cured. However, it can be treated to slow down deterioration.
Common signs and symptoms of kidney disease in older dogs
There are many key symptoms to look out for when it comes to kidney disease:
- Weight loss
- Drinking more
- Weeing more
- Tiredness
- Bad breath
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your vet.
Please note many of these symptoms can be caused by other, more treatable conditions, so make sure you get your pet checked so you know how best to treat them.
Diagnosing kidney disease in older dogs
During your appointment, your vet will take a thorough look at your dog and suggest certain tests to find out if your dog has kidney disease.
The disease can be picked up on a blood test, and a urine test can help confirm the diagnosis. Your vet may suggest measuring SDMA, a specific blood test for renal disease. Blood pressure may also be measured and an ultrasound performed to check for cysts.
Looking after an elderly dog with kidney disease at home
Sadly, at the point chronic kidney disease is diagnosed, a significant portion of the kidney tissue is no longer functioning. This damaged tissue cannot be repaired, however, management of kidney disease can help protect the remaining kidney tissue and keep this functioning for as long as possible.
Changing Food/Diet
Prescription renal diets are a go-to for pets with kidney disease, and your vet will be able to recommend some options. This food should be introduced gradually. The food contains high calories with low protein, controlled phosphorus, reduced sodium and increased potassium, vitamins and antioxidants. If possible, this should be the only food your dog is eating.
Hydration
Hydration is key, particularly for elderly dogs with kidney disease. Ensure water is always available; consider adding extra water bowls or a water fountain, and prioritise wet food alongside more frequent meals.
If your senior dog becomes too dehydrated, they may need a drip for 24 to 72 hours, which often means a hospital stay.
Medication
There are no specific medicines to improve kidney function. However, some of the side effects of kidney disease can be treated, such as high blood pressure or loss of protein in the urine.
Your vet will be able to prescribe the best combination of medication for your dog’s specific needs, taking into account any other pre-existing health conditions.
If you notice that your dog is drinking more, weeing more, or any of the other symptoms, book an appointment with your vet to get your dog checked.
Once your dog is diagnosed, ensure you book in check up appointments every 3-6 months to monitor the disease and give your dog the best quality of life possible. Joining our Healthy Pet Club is an easy way of staying on top of this, as consultations are included.
While kidney disease is a progressive condition that cannot be reversed, the quicker it is caught, the more the progression can be managed and you can spend longer making more memories with your furry best friend.