What Triggers Kidney Disease in Dogs
Feb 13,2025 | puaintapets
Kidney disease in dogs is a term used to describe any condition that impairs the normal function of the kidneys. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and balancing electrolytes. When these organs are damaged or diseased, they can no longer perform their functions efficiently, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. This can result in symptoms ranging from mild to severe, depending on the stage of the disease.
What Causes Kidney Disease in Dogs?
1. Genetic Factors
Some dog breeds are genetically predisposed to kidney problems. For example, certain purebred dogs like the Bull Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, and Samoyed have a higher likelihood of inheriting kidney diseases. These genetic mutations can affect the structure and function of the kidneys from an early age. Inherited conditions such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are caused by abnormal gene mutations. In PKD, cysts form in the kidneys, gradually replacing normal kidney tissue and interfering with the normal filtration and waste - removal processes.
2. Dietary Factors
A poor diet can play a major role in causing kidney disease in dogs. Diets that are high in phosphorus and low in quality protein can put excessive strain on the kidneys. If dogs are fed a diet that is not nutritionally balanced over a long period, it can lead to the build - up of waste products in the blood, as the kidneys struggle to filter out the excess. Additionally, diets rich in salt can also contribute to high blood pressure, which in turn can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys.
3. Age - related Changes
As dogs age, their kidneys naturally undergo degenerative changes. The nephrons, which are the functional units of the kidneys, start to decline in number and efficiency. This age - related decline makes older dogs more vulnerable to kidney disease. The aging process can also lead to a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter and excrete waste properly.
4. Infections and Inflammatory Conditions
Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can directly affect the kidneys. Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection, is a well - known cause of kidney disease in dogs. The bacteria can enter the dog's body through contact with contaminated water or soil and then migrate to the kidneys, causing inflammation and damage. In addition, autoimmune diseases, where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own kidney tissue, can also lead to chronic kidney problems.
5. Toxins and Medications
Exposure to certain toxins can have a devastating impact on a dog's kidneys. For example, antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, is highly toxic to dogs. If ingested, it can cause rapid and severe kidney failure. Some medications, when given in excessive amounts or for extended periods, can also be harmful to the kidneys. Non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common example. If not used properly, they can cause kidney damage.
6. Dehydration
Dehydration is a significant risk factor for kidney disease. When a dog does not drink enough water, the kidneys have to work harder to reabsorb water from the urine, which can lead to the concentration of waste products in the kidneys. Chronic dehydration can gradually damage the kidneys' ability to function properly. This can be especially problematic in dogs that are not provided with fresh water at all times or those that have a decreased thirst drive due to certain medical conditions.
7. Urinary Tract Obstruction
Any blockage in the urinary tract can cause back - pressure on the kidneys. This can occur due to the presence of bladder stones, tumors, or an enlarged prostate in male dogs. When the flow of urine is obstructed, the kidneys are unable to empty properly, leading to the accumulation of urine and waste products within the kidneys, which can eventually result in kidney damage.
Related: Kidney Disease in Dogs
Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs
There are several main symptoms of kidney disease in dogs:
I. Acute Kidney Disease Symptoms
Mental depression: the dog will show symptoms such as depression, lethargy and reduced activity, which is caused by discomfort and toxin buildup.
Loss of appetite: the dog may lose interest in food or even show anorexia, which is due to the kidney disease affecting the body's metabolism and digestive function.
Vomiting and diarrhea: this is one of the common symptoms of acute kidney disease, which may be caused by the kidneys' inability to filter and excrete wastes properly, leading to the accumulation of toxins in the body and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Change in urine output: There may be a decrease in urine output or absence of urine, or symptoms such as frequent urination and painful urination, which are caused by the kidney's filtering and excretion function being affected.
Edema: As the kidneys are unable to regulate the water and electrolyte balance in the body normally, it may lead to edema in dogs, especially in the eyelids, abdomen, limbs and other parts of the body.
II. Chronic Kidney Disease Symptoms
Polyhydramnios: The gradual decline of kidney function leads to the dysfunction of urine concentration, and the dog will experience an increase in water intake and urination.
Weight loss: Due to loss of appetite and malabsorption of nutrients, as well as abnormal body metabolism, the dog will gradually lose weight.
Anemia: Kidney disease may affect the production and metabolism of red blood cells, leading to anemia symptoms in dogs, such as pale mucous membranes and weakness.
Hypertension: Abnormal kidney function may lead to elevated blood pressure, further aggravating the burden on the kidneys.
Bad breath and mouth ulcers: Kidney disease may lead to accumulation of toxins in the body, causing oral problems such as bad breath and mouth ulcers.
Itchy skin and hair loss: As kidney disease affects the metabolism and nutrient supply of the skin, dogs may develop symptoms such as itchy skin and hair loss.
If you find that your dog has the above symptoms, you should take it to the veterinarian for examination and treatment.
How to Deal with Kidney Disease in Dogs?
The following is how to deal with kidney disease in dogs.
1. Seek medical treatment in time
Once you find your dog showing symptoms suspected to be kidney disease, such as excessive drinking and urination, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, etc., you should immediately take it to the pet hospital for a comprehensive examination, including routine blood analysis, blood biochemical test, electrolyte and blood gas analysis, urinalysis, etc., in order to make a definitive diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.
2.Treatment
- Acute renal failure
In case of acute renal failure, hospitalization is required as soon as possible to receive emergency intensive care treatment. Treatment will include intravenous fluids to rehydrate and flush out toxins, while the veterinarian will monitor the urine output to assess the recovery of kidney function. If the cause of the kidney failure has been identified, such as a source of infection, medications such as antibiotics will be prescribed to treat the condition, and other medications such as anti-nausea, analgesic, and gastric medications may be needed to relieve symptoms. For dogs that have difficulty eating, a feeding tube may be necessary.
- Chronic Kidney Failure
Chronic kidney failure is an irreversible disease process, but early intervention can be used to alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Dietary management under veterinary supervision is required, such as feeding a diet low in protein, phosphorus, calcium and sodium but high in omega-3 fatty acids, and ensuring that the dog receives adequate water intake. Medications such as antihypertensives, medications to regulate calcium and phosphorus balance, and nutritional supplements may be used as recommended by your veterinarian.
3. Dietary management
- Control protein intake
Choose low-protein, high-quality dog food or prescription food to avoid excessive intake of high-protein food, so as not to increase the burden on the kidneys. For older dogs or dogs at risk of kidney disease, reduce protein intake appropriately.
- Limit salt intake
Reduce the amount of salt in your dog's diet and avoid high-salt foods, such as salted fish, salted meat and salted vegetables, to reduce the burden on the kidneys.
- Control phosphorus intake
Foods that are high in phosphorus include meat products and dairy products, etc. Try feeding your dog some prescription food and prescription canned food to reduce phosphorus intake.
- Supplement vitamins and minerals
Under the guidance of your veterinarian, take appropriate vitamin and mineral supplements, such as vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, etc., to maintain the nutritional balance of your dog's body.
4.Life Care
- Provide sufficient water
Ensure your dog has clean fresh water available at all times and encourage them to drink more water to help the kidneys excrete metabolic wastes. If your dog does not like to drink water, you can increase the proportion of wet food in your dog's diet or use a water dispenser or other means to increase your dog's interest in drinking.
- Avoid holding urine
Take your dog out to urinate regularly and avoid holding urine for a long time to minimize the damage to the kidneys.
- Exercise moderately
Proper exercise can help your dog maintain a healthy weight and good physical condition, but avoid over-exercise to avoid aggravating the burden on the kidneys.
- Reduce Stress
Minimize your dog's stress response, such as sudden environmental changes, noise, strangers, etc. to reduce the impact on the kidneys.
5. Regular review
Follow your veterinarian's advice and take your dog to the hospital for regular rechecks, including blood tests, urine tests, etc., so as to keep abreast of the changes in the condition and adjust the treatment plan and diet plan.
Preventing Kidney Disease in Dogs
While not all causes of kidney disease can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk:
- Provide a balanced diet: Feed your dog high-quality food that supports kidney health.
- Regular vet check-ups: Routine health exams can help detect kidney issues early.
- Hydration: Ensure your dog has constant access to clean water.
- Avoid toxins: Be cautious with household chemicals, plants, and medications.
- Exercise and weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle can reduce the risk of kidney disease.
FAQs
What food causes kidney disease in dogs?
Conclusion
Kidney disease in dogs is a serious condition that can significantly impact your pet’s health and quality of life. While some causes, such as genetics and aging, are unavoidable, others, such as infections and toxins, can be managed with proper care. Regular vet visits, a healthy diet, and prompt treatment can help prevent or slow the progression of kidney disease, allowing your dog to live a longer, healthier life.
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