Renal Disease

Chronic renal failure is the term used to describe a progressive deterioration of renal function over time. It is seen in both cats and dogs, usually older in age, but is particularly common in cats.

Symptoms

Excessive thirst/drinking
More frequent urination
Weight loss
Anorexia
Lethargy
Vomiting
Mouth ulcers
Halitosis

It is important to say that up to 75% of the kidney function may be damaged before any of the above symptoms are even seen.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually made by taking a small blood sample, which may either be tested ‘in-house’ at the surgery, or be sent to an external laboratory. The key levels of importance are BUN (blood urea nitrogen), creatnine and Phosphorus. These will be raised if renal dysfunction is present. A urine sample can also be tested and results may show a very dilute concentration of urine and high level of protein in affected animals.

Treatment

Once diagnosis has been made, treatment will vary depending on the severity. The damage to the kidneys is irreversible unfortunately, but treatment can aid in slowing the progression of the disease.
Sometimes animals can have an acute case of renal dysfunction, for example if a poison or toxin is ingested. Blood tests can indicate severe dysfunction, however as the animal recovers, inflammation affecting the kidneys decreases and the kidney starts to work again.

Diet
A Low protein, low phosphorous diet should be fed usually in the form of a prescriptive renal diet. Your Vet will advise you on the most suitable.

Medication
Fortekor TM (benzelopazaprine) is often prescribed as it dilates the blood vessels flowing through the kidney. This lowers blood pressure and allows maximum excretion of the waste products thus preventing build up of toxins within the blood.

Intravenous fluids
In advanced cases, Intravenous fluids can be used to allow ‘flushing’ of the blood. It corrects any dehydration present and increases urinary output allowing toxins to be excreted. This may be suggested intermittently throughout treatment when appropriate and when the kidney enzymes are extremely high.

Animals with Chronic renal disease can go on to live a lot longer when treated appropriately. Early detection is the key and so a check up is vital if any of the symptoms are suspected.