Chronic Renal Failure in Horses

Chronic renal failure can occur in all breeds of horses at any age, though some certain breeds and older horses may be at a marginally higher risk of suffering from it.

  1. Causes

    • A 1997 study of chronic renal failure in horses conducted and presented by members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) states that up to 15 percent of equine chronic renal failure cases are caused by congenital disorders, including kidney disease. The study found that half of the acquired cases are the result of glomerulonephritis, and the other half are believed to be caused by chronic interstitial nephritis.

    Symptoms

    • The AAEP lists symptoms of chronic renal failure as including weight loss, poor performance,

      partial anorexia, rough hair coat and ventral edema, which causes notable swelling and water retention.

    Treatment

    • According the AAEP study, "corrective treatment for chronic renal failure in horses is not available," however, symptoms and specific problems of the disease can be treated to prolong the horse's life. These treatments include fluids, diuretics and dialysis.