Kidney Problems in dogs can be very fatal and life threatening. Kidney is an vital organ that carry out several functions to keep our dog healthy.
Functions of kidney in Dogs
There are several function of kidney in dogs similar to human being. The primary function of dogs are :
Filtration of Blood
The kidneys filters waste products, excess minerals such as potassium and phosphorus, and toxins from the bloodstream. These substances are then excreted in the urine.
Water Balance Regulation
The kidneys help regulate the body’s water balance by adjusting the concentration and volume of urine produced. This helps maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Maintenance of Acid-Base Balance
The kidneys help regulate the pH balance of the blood by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate ions as needed.
Excretion of Metabolic Waste
Aside from filtering toxins and waste products, the kidneys also eliminate by-products of metabolism such as urea and creatinine.
Regulation of Blood Pressure
The kidneys play a role in regulating blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which helps maintain adequate blood flow to the kidneys and other organs.
Production of Hormones
The kidneys produce several hormones that are important for various functions in the body, including erythropoietin that stimulates red blood cell production, renin that involves in blood pressure regulation, and calcitriol (active form of vitamin D, important for calcium metabolism).
Kidney Problems In Dogs
Kidney is a very vital organ of every living things. As the functions of kidney is already explained above and if any function of kidney is not being carried out properly then there appears several types of kidney problems in dogs.
Here are some common kidney problems in Dogs :
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Kidney disease is a progressive condition where the kidney gradually lose their ability to function like filtering blood or maintaining water level. This is a severe Kidney Problem in Dogs.
Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease are aging, infections, toxins, and congenital defects.
Acute Kidney Injury
Acute Kidney Injury is a beginning of sudden kidney failure due to factors like toxins, infections, dehydration, or trauma. Prompt veterinary care is crucial to address AKI.
Kidney Stone
Kidney stone is a sudden onset of kidney failure due to factors like toxins, infections, dehydration, or trauma. Prompt veterinary care is crucial to address AKI.
Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli), which can impair kidney function. Glomerulonephritis is a fatal Kidney Problem in Dogs.
Pyelonephritis
A bacterial infection of the kidneys, often secondary to a urinary tract infection, which can cause inflammation and damage in kidney causing several kidney problems in dogs.
What are the symptoms of Kidney Problems In Dogs
- Increased drinking and urination (polyuria/polydipsia)
- Decreased appetite ( Digestion problems in Dogs )
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Lethargy and weakness
- Bad breath with a chemical odor (uremia)
- Pale gums
- Ulcers in mouth
Diagnosis and Treatment of Kidney Problems In Dogs
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests (to assess kidney function and look for toxins), urine tests (to check for abnormalities and infections), imaging (such as ultrasound), and sometimes kidney biopsy for more detailed assessment.
Treatment depends on the specific condition but may include:
- Fluid Therapy :
To correct dehydration and support kidney function. - Dietary changes:
Prescription diets low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium can help manage kidney disease. - Medications:
To control symptoms like vomiting, manage blood pressure, or treat infections. - Monitoring:
Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor kidney function and adjust treatment as needed.
Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing kidney problems in dogs effectively. If you suspect your dog may have kidney problems, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Kidney problems in Dogs can be very hazardous and life threatening in dogs as kidney is a vital organ of living being. Be sure to get your dogs insurance to minimize the financial burden of your family.