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Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) in Dogs
What Is Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs?
Chronic renal failure (CRF), renal insufficiency, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are all medical terms used to describe the same condition. It occurs when the kidneys are unable to perform their required tasks at the same level of efficiency as before.
Dogs have two kidneys located on either side of their abdomen, that play a vital role in filtering waste from the body. Additionally, the kidneys serve to regulate fluid, mineral, and electrolyte balance; conserve water and protein; and play an important role in maintaining blood pressure and red blood cell production by making a hormone called erythropoietin.
Dogs cannot survive without their kidneys, and unfortunately, kidney transplants are yet to be a viable solution. Dialysis (a treatment for failing kidneys including the removal of waste) is often expensive and is extremely rare in dogs. However, early diagnosis and intervention is key to help maintain your dogs quality of life.
Once diagnosed, CRF is then classified into four different stages based on severity of clinical signs and laboratory values:
Stage I: Clinical signs usually not apparent
Stage II: Some clinical signs noted
Stage III: Many clinical signs noted, and pets often feel sick
Stage IV: Majority of clinical signs noted, pets often present as a crisis
Causes of Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs
The term chronic in chronic renal failure means that the process has been ongoing, is progressive, and unfortunately, cannot be reversed. For some dogs, the disease could have occurred after a serious kidney injury such as from a severe infection (i.e., leptospirosis, pyelonephritis) or ingestion of a toxic substance such as anti-freeze, grapes, or raisins, and certain antibiotics.
For others, it could be inherited, such as with glomerular disease (a specific type of renal kidney disease) and amyloidosis (a rare organ disease) as seen in breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog and Shar-pei.
For others, it could be attributed to underlying immune-mediated diseases, stroke-like events, or even from clotting disorders. In cases for newly diagnosed dogs the underlying cause will likely remain unknown.
Symptoms of Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs
Clinical signs are often related to the severity of the CRF stage, meaning there are additional and more severe signs noted with stages III and IV than there are with stages I and II. Dogs often exhibit symptoms including:
Foul breath
Weight loss
Decreased appetite
Some dogs may show muscle wasting and signs attributed to high blood pressure, such as vision loss and weakness.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs
CRF is often diagnosed based on routine blood work and a urinalysis looking specifically at kidney markers such as:
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): A by-product of protein metabolism, higher values can often indicate kidney failure
Creatinine (CREA): Measures how well kidneys are filtering waste from blood
Phosphorous: Elevated phosphorus levels typically indicate kidney damage
Electrolytes (Sodium, potassium, chloride)
Calcium
Red blood cell count: A low red blood cell count may indicate kidney failure
Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA): An additional test to help determine if kidney disease is present; it can be used for early detection of kidney disease
Urine specific gravity: A marker of how diluted or concentrated the urine is. Usually the higher the number, the more concentrated the urine is and the greater ability of the kidney to conserve water.
Your veterinarian will most likely recommend additional diagnostic testing, including:
A urine protein to creatinine (UPC) ratio to quantify how much protein is being lost in the urine
A urine culture, as dogs in CKD are more likely to acquire urinary tract infections
A blood pressure evaluation
Radiographs or abdominal ultrasound to screen for kidney stones or infarcts (areas of dead tissue)
Treatment of Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs
Dogs with CRF are generally older and have other ongoing issues, such as arthritis or liver disease, and so the management of CRF can be challenging. However, CRF can be managed, mostly with the aid of medications, diet, and hydration.
Specific management is geared toward each stage of the disease, with each progressive stage recommendations built upon the previous stage recommendations. Any dog in any stage with an increase in either UPC (urine protein to creatinine ratio) or high blood pressure will most likely be treated with medication.
Throughout your dogs life, any disease process or illness that could affect his hydration should be treated promptly with IV fluids. Other drugs will be prescribed based on the dogs diagnosis since renal metabolism will be affected and can lead to overdosages and/or worsening of the kidney disease.
Additionally, for all stages, fresh water should always be available, drinking should be encouraged, and adequate nutrition should be given daily. Dogs diagnosed with CRF are most likely prescribed a kidney friendly diet, which may include feeding your dog a canned diet of wet food that contains additional water.
Recovery and Prevention of Chronic Renal Failure in Dogs
As chronic renal failure is not curable and often progressive (although the timeline is variable) in nature, dogs diagnosed early on will benefit from nutritional management and consistent veterinary attention, which may include more frequent check-ups and blood work.
Dogs in stages I and II may often be monitored for further progression of signs, and some may be given a prescription diet specifically geared to help the kidney, by limiting the amount of work they must do.
Many dogs can go on to have a decent quality of life for many months to years. Dogs in stages III and IV often require more medical and dietary assistance. If secondary anemia is present, erythropoietin injections can be given at the direction of your veterinarian.
Dietary supplements, and phosphorus binders (to treat high phosphorus levels) may also be given for low potassium. Anti-nausea and anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) medications can also be prescribed for dogs with a poor appetite, vomiting, or nausea. Fluids given either intravenously or underneath the skin can help dehydration. Because of the severity of signs often seen in dogs with stage III and IV, and the amount of care and effort required to support these dogs, some may be humanely euthanized.
Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) In Dogs FAQs
How long can a dog live with kidney failure without treatment?
Left untreated, dogs in kidney failure will die, usually within a few days to a few weeks. Death is often preceded by loss of appetite, dehydration, weight loss, vomiting, and multi-organ failure.
Can dogs recover from chronic renal failure?
There is no cure for CRF. However, if CRF is caught early and managed correctly, most dogs that experience kidney disease can go on to live a relatively normal life with some changes and long-term management.
Can chronic renal failure in dogs be reversed?
While CRF is not reversible, early treatment can provide your pet with a happier, longer, and fuller life. Regular, semi-annual checkups are key to early diagnosis and treatment of the development of chronic renal disease.
Featured Image: iStock.com/Korneeva_Kristina
WRITTEN BY
Michael Kearley, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Michael Kearley graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2013. He graduated with a certificate in...
My Dog Has Kidney Failure And Won T Eat
[ad_1]My Dog Has Kidney Failure And Wont Eat: What Can I Do?
Having a beloved pet diagnosed with kidney failure can be a difficult and emotional experience for any pet owner. Kidney failure in dogs can be a serious and life-threatening condition, and one of the most common symptoms of kidney failure is a loss of appetite. If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney failure and wont eat, its important to take action quickly to ensure their health and well-being.
In this article, we will explore the various reasons why a dog with kidney failure may refuse to eat, as well as provide some helpful tips and advice on how to encourage your dog to eat. We will also delve into some interesting trends related to the topic and address common concerns that pet owners may have when dealing with a dog with kidney failure.
7 Interesting Trends Related to Dogs with Kidney Failure and Loss of Appetite:
1. Increased Interest in Homemade Diets: With the rise of holistic and natural pet care, many pet owners are turning to homemade diets for their dogs with kidney failure. These diets can be tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of a dog with kidney failure and may be more appealing to a dog who has lost their appetite.
2. Rise in Alternative Therapies: As traditional veterinary treatments for kidney failure may not always be successful in stimulating appetite, some pet owners are turning to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, and massage to help improve their dogs appetite and overall well-being.
3. Growing Popularity of Appetite Stimulants: Appetite stimulants are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners whose dogs are refusing to eat due to kidney failure. These medications can help to increase a dogs appetite and encourage them to eat, which is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
4. Interest in Nutritional Supplements: Many pet owners are exploring the use of nutritional supplements to help support their dogs kidney function and improve their appetite. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants can be beneficial for dogs with kidney failure and may help to stimulate their appetite.
5. Adoption of Specialized Diets: There has been a growing trend in the adoption of specialized diets for dogs with kidney failure. These diets are formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of dogs with kidney failure and may help to improve their appetite and overall health.
6. Increase in Veterinary Consultations: Pet owners are increasingly seeking the advice of veterinarians and veterinary specialists when dealing with a dog with kidney failure and loss of appetite. These professionals can provide valuable guidance and support in managing the condition and improving the dogs appetite.
7. Interest in Home Care: With the rise of telemedicine and virtual consultations, many pet owners are taking a more active role in managing their dogs kidney failure at home. This trend allows pet owners to monitor their dogs appetite and overall health more closely and make adjustments to their care as needed.
Quotes from Professionals in the Field:
1. When dealing with a dog with kidney failure and loss of appetite, its important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your dogs specific needs. This may include medication, dietary changes, and supportive care to help improve your dogs appetite and overall well-being.
2. Appetite stimulants can be a helpful tool in managing a dog with kidney failure who is not eating. However, its important to use these medications under the guidance of a veterinarian, as they may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
3. Nutritional supplements can play a valuable role in supporting a dog with kidney failure and improving their appetite. Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants can help to support kidney function and promote a healthy appetite in dogs with kidney failure.
4. Specialized diets formulated for dogs with kidney failure can be an important part of managing the condition and improving your dogs appetite. These diets are designed to be low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, which can help to reduce the workload on the kidneys and support overall kidney function.
Common Concerns and Answers Related to Dogs with Kidney Failure and Loss of Appetite:
1. Concern: My dog has been diagnosed with kidney failure, but they wont eat. What should I do?
Answer: Its important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of your dogs loss of appetite and develop a treatment plan to address it. This may include medication, dietary changes, and supportive care to help improve your dogs appetite.
2. Concern: Are there any appetite stimulants that can help my dog with kidney failure eat?
Answer: Yes, there are appetite stimulants available that can help to increase your dogs appetite and encourage them to eat. However, its important to use these medications under the guidance of a veterinarian, as they may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
3. Concern: Can nutritional supplements help improve my dogs appetite with kidney failure?
Answer: Yes, nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and antioxidants can help to support kidney function and promote a healthy appetite in dogs with kidney failure. These supplements can be beneficial in improving your dogs overall health and well-being.
4. Concern: Should I switch my dog to a specialized diet for kidney failure?
Answer: Specialized diets formulated for dogs with kidney failure can be an important part of managing the condition and improving your dogs appetite. These diets are designed to be low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, which can help to reduce the workload on the kidneys and support overall kidney function.
5. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is refusing to eat. What can I do to encourage them to eat?
Answer: There are several strategies you can try to encourage your dog to eat, such as offering small, frequent meals, warming their food to enhance the aroma, and adding tasty toppings or treats to make their food more appealing.
6. Concern: My dog has kidney failure and is losing weight due to not eating. How can I help them maintain a healthy weight?
Answer: Its important to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your dogs weight and adjust their diet as needed to help them maintain a healthy weight. This may include feeding a calorie-dense diet or using nutritional supplements to support their overall health.
7. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is on medication that may affect their appetite. What should I do?
Answer: If your dog is on medication that may affect their appetite, its important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. They may recommend adjusting the dosage or timing of the medication, or switching to a different medication that is less likely to impact your dogs appetite.
8. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is experiencing nausea and vomiting, which is affecting their appetite. What can I do to help them feel better?
Answer: If your dog is experiencing nausea and vomiting, its important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to address it. This may include medication to help control nausea, dietary changes, and supportive care to help your dog feel better.
9. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is dehydrated, which is affecting their appetite. What can I do to ensure they stay hydrated?
Answer: Its important to ensure that your dog with kidney failure stays hydrated to support their overall kidney function and appetite. You can encourage them to drink more water by offering fresh water regularly, adding water to their food, or providing wet food to increase their moisture intake.
10. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is showing signs of depression due to not eating. What can I do to improve their mood?
Answer: Its important to provide your dog with plenty of love, attention, and mental stimulation to help improve their mood and overall well-being. You can also try engaging them in activities they enjoy, such as walks, playtime, and training sessions, to help lift their spirits.
11. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is refusing to eat their prescription diet. What should I do?
Answer: If your dog is refusing to eat their prescription diet, its important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a plan to address it. This may include trying different flavors or textures of food, offering small, frequent meals, and adding tasty toppings or treats to make their food more appealing.
12. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is experiencing constipation, which is affecting their appetite. What can I do to help them have regular bowel movements?
Answer: If your dog is experiencing constipation, its important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to address it. This may include dietary changes, medication to help regulate their bowel movements, and supportive care to help your dog feel better.
13. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is refusing to take their medication, which is affecting their appetite. What can I do to ensure they receive their necessary medication?
Answer: If your dog is refusing to take their medication, its important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action. This may include trying different forms of the medication, such as liquid or chewable tablets, or using pill pockets or tasty treats to help your dog take their medication more easily.
14. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is experiencing muscle weakness and lethargy due to not eating. What can I do to help them regain their strength?
Answer: Its important to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your dogs muscle strength and overall health, and develop a plan to help them regain their strength. This may include physical therapy, exercise, and nutritional supplements to support muscle function and improve their overall well-being.
15. Concern: My dog with kidney failure is experiencing anxiety and stress, which is affecting their appetite. What can I do to help them feel more calm and relaxed?
Answer: Its important to provide your dog with a calm and stress-free environment to help them feel more relaxed and at ease. You can also try using calming supplements or pheromone diffusers to help reduce their anxiety and improve their appetite.
In conclusion, dealing with a dog with kidney failure and loss of appetite can be a challenging and emotional experience for any pet owner. By working closely with your veterinarian and following their guidance, you can help to improve your dogs appetite and overall well-being. Remember to be patient and persistent in your efforts to encourage your dog to eat, and dont hesitate to seek help and support from veterinary professionals when needed. With the right care and attention, you can help your dog with kidney failure live a happy and healthy life.[ad_2]
