Both older dogs and puppies can get canine kidney disease. However, it is most common – and sometimes unavoidable – for older dogs. The bad news is that most kidney diseases do not have any noticeable symptoms. This makes it very hard for pet owners to recognize. Usually, when kidney failure does get noticed, the damage has already been done. Symptoms only become noticeable when the case has turned severe.
Kidney disease in dogs can be caused by a lot of things. However, dogs are most likely to get it because of age more than anything. It is the kidney’s function to screen out any toxins in the dog’s bodies. As time goes by, the organ wears down. The same amount of toxins the dog usually ingests may be too much for the old kidney. It is not able to function as well. Underlying diseases may also bring on dog’s kidney disease. Cancer, for example, will lower your dog’s resistance to toxins, making him prone to kidney diseases. Cancer-related medicine will also affect your dog’s system. Some autoimmune disorders can cause kidney disease. Fungal infections, viruses and parasites can also cause kidney problems. Furthermore, if your dog has any genetic predispositions to the disease, he will be more likely to develop it.
Knowing your dog’s behavioral patterns is the best way to diagnose kidney disease early on. This way, you’ll notice when there is a break in the regular routine. Keep a close eye on your dog, especially if he has been around for quite some time. If your dog becomes abnormally thirsty, while he doesn’t urinate frequently, it might be time to visit a vet. Other indicators that he might have kidney disease include: uncontrollable bladder, sudden weight loss, and vomiting. Dogs with kidney disease also aren’t very energetic.
Treatment for kidney disease in dogs can vary, depending on how severe your dog’s case might be. Fluid therapy is often prescribed to dogs with the disease. This allows him to flush out the toxins in his system that may be causing the disease. Furthermore, it replenishes the hydration in his body. A strict diet is also recommended for the dog. If your dog has chronic kidney disease, he may need maintenance. When kidney disease stays untreated, it could lead to hazardous and lethal results. Kidney failure can cause the dog’s whole body to go into shock, shutting down his other major organs.
Kidney problems in dogs can certainly prevent, it is the owner’s responsibility to keep their dogs safe from the disease. Instead of feeding your dog large meals, try breaking them up into smaller, more frequent meals. Cottage cheese, eggs and yoghurt are all great for a dog’s kidneys. Also, if he is not eating, you might want to give him some appetite stimulant so that he does not lose nourishment. Prevention is always the best weapon against kidney problems in dogs. Regular check-ups with the vet are recommended, so kidney disease can be diagnosed early on.
Canine Arthritis or degenerative joint disease causes lameness, swollen joints, muscle atrophy and crepitation or dry crackling sound in joints of most breeds of dogs.