What is kidney failure in dogs?
Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer efficiently filter waste products from the blood and perform other essential functions (Coyne et al., 2020). There are two main types of kidney failure in dogs:
Acute kidney failure occurs suddenly, over a period of days or weeks. Common causes include ingesting toxins, decreased blood flow due to shock, and urinary obstruction.
Chronic kidney failure develops gradually over months or years. The most common cause is glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the tiny filters in the kidneys (Dunaevich et al., 2020).
Veterinarians typically classify chronic kidney failure into four stages based on blood test results: (Pethealthnetwork.com)
- Stage 1 – Kidney damage with normal kidney function
- Stage 2 – Mild decrease in kidney function
- Stage 3 – Moderate decrease in kidney function
- Stage 4 – Severe decrease in kidney function
Treatment and prognosis depend on the underlying cause and stage of kidney failure.
Common causes of kidney failure in dogs
Age is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney failure in dogs. As dogs get older, their kidneys gradually become less efficient. Genetics can also play a role, as some breeds like Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to kidney problems.
Physical trauma, such as being hit by a car, can lead to acute kidney injury. Exposure to toxins like antifreeze, grapes, raisins, NSAIDs, and rodenticides can also damage the kidneys. Certain infections like leptospirosis, a bacterial disease, are infamous for infecting the kidneys.
Cancer in the kidneys or urinary tract increases the risk of kidney problems developing. Other causes include birth defects, high blood pressure, blood clots, and kidney stones.
According to WebMD, dehydration, heat stroke, snake bites, and leptospirosis are common causes of sudden kidney failure in dogs. The Pet Health Network also lists damage to kidney filters, kidney tissue infections, and autoimmune disease as frequent culprits.
Early signs of kidney problems
Some early signs to watch for that may indicate kidney problems in dogs include:
- Increased thirst – Dogs with kidney disease often experience increased thirst, or polydipsia, as their kidneys are unable to concentrate urine properly. Increased water intake is needed to make up for the excess urination caused by the kidneys’ inability to reabsorb water (according to RAETC).
- Increased urination – Along with increased thirst, dogs with kidney problems will often need to urinate more frequently. This is called polyuria and is due to the kidneys being unable to concentrate the urine and reabsorb water (according to WCRAH).
- Weight loss – Despite an increased appetite in some cases, kidney disease often causes weight loss in dogs. This is because their failing kidneys are unable to metabolize nutrients properly (according to WCRAH).
- Vomiting and diarrhea – Gastrointestinal signs like vomiting and diarrhea can occur if the kidneys are unable to excrete metabolic waste products. This leads to a buildup of toxins in the blood which causes nausea and gastrointestinal upset (according to RAETC).
- Loss of appetite – As kidney disease progresses, dogs may lose their appetite. This can result from nausea, alterations in taste due to toxins in the blood, or a disrupted metabolism (according to WCRAH).
Diagnosing kidney failure
A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and run several tests to diagnose kidney failure in dogs. The physical exam allows the vet to check for signs like weight loss, dehydration, oral ulcers, and high blood pressure. The vet will also feel and examine the dog’s abdomen to see if the kidneys feel abnormal.
The first test performed is usually a urinalysis. This checks for signs of kidney problems like excess protein, blood, and glucose in the urine. Dilute urine can also indicate poor kidney function. Further urine tests can measure kidney values like creatinine and GFR.
A complete blood count and blood chemistry panel are done to evaluate kidney function, electrolyte levels, anemia, and hydration status. Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels confirm impaired kidney function.
Imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans allow the vet to visualize the size, shape, and abnormalities in the kidneys. These help determine the cause and severity of kidney disease.
Treatment options for kidney failure
Once kidney failure is diagnosed, the main treatments focus on reducing the workload on the kidneys and managing the symptoms. Common treatments include:
Fluids
Giving extra fluids, usually by intravenous (IV) drip, helps flush toxins from the body and may stimulate kidney function. Fluid therapy provides support and lets the kidneys rest (Source).
Diet change
Changing to a low-protein, low-phosphorus, low-sodium diet supports kidney health. Your vet may recommend a prescription kidney diet. Limiting protein places less stress on failing kidneys (Source).
Medication
Medications can help control blood pressure, replace nutrients, and reduce nausea. Phosphate binders limit absorption of phosphorus from food. Diuretics promote fluid loss through urination. Blood pressure medications also help prevent further kidney damage (Source).
Dialysis
In severe kidney failure, dialysis filters waste from the blood. This intensive treatment must be administered by a veterinary specialist but can provide quality of life if the pet responds well.
Can kidney failure be prevented?
There are several ways pet owners can help prevent kidney failure in dogs, or at least detect it early when treatment is most effective.
Annual vet exams allow early detection of kidney issues through bloodwork and urinalysis. Your vet can monitor kidney values and watch for signs of deterioration (source).
Feeding your dog a high-quality diet designed for their life stage, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help prevent kidney problems. Obesity stresses the kidneys. Choose a dog food with meat as the first ingredient and natural preservatives (source).
Avoid exposing your dog to toxins like antifreeze, human medications, grapes/raisins, or heavy metals. Provide clean, fresh drinking water daily.
High protein diets may be hard on kidneys, so work with your vet if your dog already has kidney issues (source). With early detection and care, kidney failure may be delayed or managed.
Caring for a dog with kidney failure
Caring for a dog with kidney failure requires making some modifications to their daily routine and environment, including:
Easy access to a fresh water supply – Dogs with kidney issues tend to drink more water, so provide clean bowls around the house and check frequently.
Wet food diet – Canned food has a high water content which helps kidney function. It’s easier for dogs to chew and digest as well. Ask your vet for wet food recommendations.
Medications as prescribed – Kidney medications like ACE inhibitors help control blood pressure and protein loss. Give medications on schedule and as directed.
Limited exercise – Let your dog determine their activity level. Short, gentle walks are usually fine but avoid strenuous exercise that could strain the kidneys.VCA Animal Hospital
Comfortable rest areas – Provide soft, warm bedding away from drafts so your dog can relax and retain body heat.
Prognosis for dogs with kidney failure
The prognosis for dogs with kidney failure depends greatly on the underlying cause and how early it is diagnosed and treated. According to the Veterinary Centers of America Hospitals, even dogs with severe kidney failure may respond favorably to treatment and resume a normal quality of life if caught and managed early on (source).
If kidney failure is caused by an acute illness or toxicity, the prognosis is often good if treated promptly before significant kidney damage occurs. However, chronic kidney disease that progresses slowly over time has a more guarded prognosis. According to Michigan State University, dogs with chronic kidney disease can often live for months to years with good quality of life if the disease is caught early and properly managed (source).
In cases of late-stage chronic kidney failure where the kidneys have lost over 75% of normal function, the prognosis is poorer and life expectancy is limited to a few months or less. However, with dedicated owners providing supportive care and following veterinarian recommendations, even end-stage kidney disease can often be managed to extend and improve quality of life.
Coping with grief
Losing a beloved pet to kidney failure is extremely difficult. Allow yourself to fully grieve the loss of your dog. Don’t feel pressured to “get over it” right away. Take the time you need to mourn. Creating a memorial can also help with the grieving process. This could involve putting together a photo album or memory box of your dog. Some owners find comfort in getting a paw print or clipping a lock of fur. You may want to hold a memorial service to celebrate your dog’s life.
Joining a pet loss support group, either locally or online, is another way to help cope with the grief. Connecting with others who understand the profound sadness of losing a pet provides needed support. Don’t isolate yourself, lean on loved ones during this painful time. While the grief may feel overwhelming at times, it does gradually lessen. Cherish your fond memories of your dog. In time, the sadness will be replaced with happier reflections on your treasured canine companion.
Here is one story of coping with the loss of a dog to kidney failure:
Source
Takeaways
As hard as it is, the loss of a beloved pet to kidney failure can provide some valuable lessons and takeaways:
Kidney failure is often preventable with proper nutrition, hydration, regular vet checkups, and prompt treatment of underlying conditions. Catching kidney issues early is critical to stopping progression and improving outcomes.
Treatment can buy precious time if kidney failure is caught early. Though incurable, vet-prescribed medications, intravenous fluids, diet changes, and at-home care can provide months or even years of quality life.
Self-care while grieving is important. The heartache of losing a pet can be profound. Allowing time to grieve and finding social support can help cope with the loss.
While painful, focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment, and self-care are all within an owner’s power to potentially save their dog from kidney failure.