What causes kidney failure in dogs and cats?

Also known as renal failure, kidney failure occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter out waste products from the blood. There are several reasons why this can happen, with some common factors including:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD): A progressive condition that develops over time, usually because of age-related degeneration.

• Acute kidney injury (AKI): A sudden onset of kidney dysfunction caused by toxins, infections, trauma, blood clots, kidney stones, cancer, etc.

• Hereditary predisposition/Congenital disease: Genetics can make certain breeds more prone to kidney disease and some pets can be born with a congenital defect in their kidneys, resulting in poor/reduced kidney function.

• Infections: Bacterial infections like leptospirosis can seriously damage the kidneys.

• Toxins: Ingesting toxic substances/foods, like antifreeze, grapes/sultanas, or certain medications, like anti-inflammatories, can result in acute kidney failure.

Signs and symptoms of kidney failure in dogs and cats

Kidney failure results in poor urine concentrating ability and decreased filtering of toxins and electrolytes from the body. This leads to significant dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the buildup of more acidic components in the body. Some common symptoms of kidney failure include:

• Increased thirst and/or increased urination

• Loss of appetite

• Sudden weight loss

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

• Lethargy and depression (Always tired and/or weak)

• Bad breath, sometimes with a chemical odour

• Pale gums.

** Cats show similar symptoms to dogs as listed above, but can additionally develop poor coat condition. 

How do vets diagnose kidney disease?

Your vet can diagnose kidney disease in your pet with a combination of clinical examination and diagnostic tests. Blood tests and urine analysis can assess how well the kidneys are functioning. In some cases, imaging studies (i.e. ultrasound or x-rays) can be used to look at the kidneys’ size and structure and check for causes of the disease, such as blood clots, kidney stones, growths or signs of infection.

How to treat kidney disease in cats and dogs

The best way to treat kidney disease in dogs and cats is to first manage the symptoms, then slow the disease’s progress and ultimately improve the quality of your furry friend’s life. If there is a cause identified, like infection for example, then specific treatments will be implemented for this, but if the cause is degenerative disease, like CKD, then we need to support the kidneys and try to conserve the remaining kidney function, as best as possible. Management might include:

• Dietary management: A specific renal diet will minimise the work the kidneys have to do while also supporting kidney health, delivering essential nutrients.

• Fluid therapy: Administering fluids at regular intervals can help maintain hydration levels and support overall kidney function. Providing additional and alternative water sources at home, like cat fountains and feeding a higher percentage of wet food in the diet, will encourage more water intake and improve hydration. Additional fluid therapy like subcutaneous or intravenous fluids may be recommended.

• Medications: Depending on the severity and cause of the disease, medications can be prescribed to control symptoms and manage any possible complications.

• Regular monitoring: Check-ups with your vet and routine blood tests are the best way to monitor your pet’s kidney function. Additional tests, such as checking blood pressure, may also be recommended.

Life expectancy

Ultimately, the life expectancy of any pet with kidney disease will depend on the severity of the condition, what has caused it and how well it’s managed. The good news is that with proper treatment and ongoing monitoring, many pets can live comfortably for several months or years. The most important thing is to detect the condition early, so medical intervention can slow the disease’s progression.