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Urinarias

Chronic kidney disease

Progressive and irreversible loss of kidney function. Very common in older cats and dogs. It cannot be cured, but it can be slowed down and give many years of good quality of life.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Drinking far more water than usual
  • • Urinating larger amounts and more often
  • • Progressive weight loss
  • • Lethargy and reduced appetite
  • • Vomiting, bad breath (in advanced stages)
  • • Unkempt coat

Causes

Ageing, genetic predisposition, previous illnesses, hypertension, infections and toxins. In cats it is very common from 7-10 years of age onwards.

Diagnosis

Blood tests (urea, creatinine, SDMA — the latter detects the disease earlier) and urine tests. Early detection greatly changes the prognosis.

Treatment

There is no cure, but treatment slows it down: a specific renal diet, control of hydration, medication for blood pressure and phosphorus, and fluid therapy. With good management, many animals live for years with a good quality of life.

Prevention

Annual check-ups and blood tests from 7 years of age (key to early detection), water always available, and avoidance of substances toxic to the kidneys.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if your pet is drinking and urinating far more than usual, or losing weight. In senior pets, have an annual blood test even if they seem healthy.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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