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Urinarias

Acute kidney failure

Sudden loss of kidney function. Unlike the chronic form, it comes on abruptly and, if treated in time, can be reversible.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

EMERGENCY: if your pet stops urinating, is vomiting and suddenly becomes very depressed, go to the vet IMMEDIATELY. If you suspect it has ingested a toxin, do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Intense, rapidly developing lethargy
  • • Vomiting
  • • Producing no urine, or very little
  • • Loss of appetite
  • • Bad breath, dehydration
  • • Possible tremors or seizures in severe cases

Causes

Toxins (antifreeze, lilies in cats, grapes, certain medications), urinary obstruction, heatstroke, shock, severe infections (leptospirosis).

Diagnosis

Blood tests (markedly raised urea and creatinine) and urinalysis. A rapid diagnosis is crucial.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: hospitalisation with intensive fluid therapy, treatment of the underlying cause, sometimes dialysis. If action is taken early, the kidneys can recover.

Prevention

Keep kidney-damaging toxins out of reach (antifreeze, lilies, grapes), do not self-medicate your pet, and vaccinate against leptospirosis.

When should you see the vet?

EMERGENCY: if your pet stops urinating, is vomiting and suddenly becomes very depressed, go to the vet IMMEDIATELY. If you suspect it has ingested a toxin, do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

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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