Renal disease is the medical term for kidney disease. The kidneys are located near the bladder and are part of the urinary tract system in your dog. By understanding the signs and symptoms of kidney disease, a dog owner can actually help detect kidney disease in the early stages and potentially even help reverse the condition.
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Causes
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There are a large number of conditions that can eventually lead to kidney disease. While kidney disease is relatively common in older dogs, it can also be due to infections that are caused by bacteria, a virus or a fungus. In addition to this, kidney disease can occur because of parasites, an autoimmune disease, chronic inflammation or cancer. Renal disease can be caused by other medications or due to trauma. Some dogs may also have kidney disease due to congenital defects or because of genetics.
Changes in Bowel Movements and Urination
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The most common sign of kidney disease is a change in the dog's bowel movements. Some dogs may experience a change in urination, such as an increase or a decrease in the frequency or amount of urine. There may be blood or foreign particles present in the urine. Some dogs may experience involuntary urination while sleeping. Meanwhile, other dogs may also suffer from diarrhea.
Additional Symptoms
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Many dogs will increase their water intake but may exhibit a decrease in appetite. This is often accompanied by weight loss but may also be accompanied by vomiting. Some dogs will become lethargic and have an overall unhealthy appearance. If you suspect your dog has kidney disease, then you may have noticed a change in the health of your dog's fur coat.
Additional symptoms your veterinarian may note include pale gums, anemia and irregular kidneys that may be enlarged or abnormally small. Your dog may also have bad breath, dehydration and high blood pressure. Some dogs may suffer from swelling of the limbs or the abdomen, softened bones or ulcers which are present in the mouth.
Diagnosis
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Blood tests and urine tests are the most common tests used to diagnose renal disease in dogs. In a blood test, the blood sample will be used for a chemistry panel which will test several variables. These variables will help your veterinarian determine what stage of disease your dog's kidneys are currently at. As with a blood test, a urine test---known as urinalysis---involves several tests to determine a variety of factors. A urinalysis will check protein levels, concentration of the urine and examine for excess sediment present in the urine.
Treatment
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The cause of kidney disease will affect what type of treatment your dog receives. For example, kidney disease that is being caused by a parasite (such as the giant kidney worm) will involve treatment to remove the parasites. However, most dogs will undergo fluid therapy due to mild to severe dehydration. This will also help restart regular urination. In the event that urination does not occur, medication can be provided to help the kidneys produce urine. After your dog has regained fluids, it is likely he will be more willing to start eating again. If vomiting occurs, medications may be used to help sooth nausea and vomiting. If treated early, kidney disease has the potential to be reversed. Unfortunately, not all cases of kidney disease can be cured and kidney disease often leads to kidney failure.
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