Renal disease or kidney disease may occur in two forms: acute and chronic. The function of the kidney is to filter out toxins in the body and conserve water at the same time. In healthy pets, the kidney will concentrate urine. In a pet where the kidney is not functioning properly, the kidney(s) will not concentrate the urine and the pet will require larger amounts of water to filter out toxins. In acute renal failure, the prognosis is poor. Pets with chronic renal failure can live from a few days to several years, depending on the severity of the disease. To diagnose renal disease blood work, urinalysis, and possibly an ultrasound of the kidneys may be necessary.
Symptoms include:
- increased thirst
- more frequent urination
- lethargy
- lack of appetite
- vomiting
Contact us if you notice any of the above symptoms in your pet.
View our facilities, including ultrasound equipment.