Canine Kidney Failure — Overview

Key Takeaways

Kidney failure in dogs occurs when kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products, regulate hydration, and maintain electrolyte balance

Early signs include increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, and lethargy, while advanced stages show vomiting, bad breath, and weakness—these symptoms may indicate underlying kidney issues that require prompt attention

The International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) classifies chronic kidney disease into four stages, with Stage 4 being the most severe

While chronic kidney failure is incurable, early detection and proper management can significantly improve quality of life and extend survival

Treatment approaches vary based on whether the condition is acute (sudden onset) or chronic (gradual development over months to years)

When your dog’s kidneys begin to fail, the effects ripple through their entire body, affecting everything from waste filtration to red blood cell production. Canine kidney failure represents one of the most serious health challenges facing our four-legged companions, particularly as they age. Understanding this complex condition—from recognizing the earliest clinical signs to implementing effective treatment strategies—can make the difference between months and years of quality life for your beloved pet.

Kidney failure in dogs affects millions of pets worldwide, with chronic kidney disease becoming increasingly common in older dogs. The condition’s insidious nature means that by the time most owners notice symptoms, significant kidney damage has already occurred. However, with advances in veterinary medicine and early diagnostic tools, veterinarians diagnose kidney failure much earlier than in the past, opening doors to more effective management strategies.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about canine kidney failure, from understanding the basic functions of your dog’s kidneys to implementing treatment plans that can extend and improve your pet’s life.

The kidneys also play crucial roles beyond waste removal. They regulate blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin system, produce hormones that stimulate red blood cell production in the bone marrow, and maintain acid-base balance throughout your dog’s body. When kidney function deteriorates, these vital processes become compromised, leading to a cascade of health problems that affect multiple organ systems. Systemic diseases can impact not only the kidneys but also other body tissues, resulting in clinical signs related to organ and tissue damage beyond the kidneys.

Veterinary medicine recognizes two distinct types of kidney failure. Acute kidney failure, also called acute renal failure or acute kidney disease, develops suddenly over days to weeks, often triggered by toxin exposure, severe infections, or blood flow disruptions to the kidney tissue. This form of renal failure represents a medical emergency requiring immediate aggressive treatment. Bacterial infections, especially from contaminated water, can cause inflammation and damage to renal cells, leading to kidney dysfunction or failure.

Chronic kidney disease, also known as chronic renal failure or chronic kidney failure, develops gradually over months to years. This progressive condition results from ongoing damage to functioning nephrons—the kidney’s filtering units—and represents the more common form of kidney problems in older dogs. Age-related degeneration of dogs kidneys can lead to chronic renal failure over time. Glomerular disease is another potential underlying cause of progressive kidney dysfunction, often resulting in proteinuria and contributing to the development of azotemia. Unlike acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease typically cannot be reversed, but proper management can slow its progression and maintain quality of life.

The distinction between these two types is crucial because it determines treatment approaches and prognosis. While acute kidney failure may be potentially reversible with rapid intervention, dogs with chronic kidney disease require lifelong management to maintain their pet’s condition and prevent complications.

IRIS Staging System for Chronic Kidney Disease

The International Renal Interest Society has developed a standardized staging system that helps veterinarians classify dogs chronic kidney disease based on serum creatinine levels, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) measurements, and other clinical factors. This system provides a framework for treatment decisions and helps predict prognosis.

Stage 1: Mild Kidney Damage Dogs in Stage 1 show minimal kidney damage with normal or only slightly elevated creatinine levels. SDMA may be elevated above 18 μg/dL, indicating early kidney dysfunction before traditional markers show abnormalities. These dogs typically show no clinical signs, making early diagnosis challenging without routine blood tests.

Stage 2: Mild Azotemia Stage 2 dogs begin showing mild elevation in waste products in their blood, with creatinine levels between 1.4-2.0 mg/dL in dogs. Subtle clinical signs may emerge, including increased thirst and urination as the kidneys lose their ability to produce concentrated urine.

Stage 3: Moderate Azotemia With creatinine levels between 2.1-5.0 mg/dL, Stage 3 dogs develop noticeable symptoms including decreased appetite, weight loss, and more pronounced drinking and urination. These dogs require active management to maintain their quality of life.

Stage 4: Severe Azotemia Stage 4 represents end-stage kidney disease with creatinine levels above 5.0 mg/dL. Dogs in this stage show obvious clinical signs including vomiting, severe lethargy, and potential complications like anemia and bone disease. Without intensive management, the prognosis becomes guarded.

The IRIS system also includes sub-staging based on urine protein levels and blood pressure measurements. Monitoring a dog's blood pressure is crucial for accurately staging kidney failure and guiding management, as hypertension can worsen kidney damage and affect prognosis. Dogs with significant proteinuria (urine protein-to-creatinine ratio above 0.5) face increased risk of disease progression, while those who are severely hypertensive require additional cardiovascular management.

Median survival times vary significantly by stage. Dogs diagnosed in Stage 1 may live over 400 days with proper care, while those in Stage 3 typically survive 110-200 days. However, individual responses to treatment can dramatically influence these projections, with some dogs living years beyond expected timelines.

The most common early indicators involve changes in drinking and urination patterns. Increased thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria) occur because damaged kidneys lose their ability to concentrate urine effectively. You may notice your dog requesting to go outside more frequently, having accidents in the house despite being house-trained, or consuming unusually large amounts of water.

Subtle appetite changes often accompany these early signs. Dogs may begin eating less enthusiastically, leaving food in their bowls, or showing decreased interest in treats. This gradual loss of appetite contributes to slow weight loss that owners might initially attribute to normal aging or increased activity.

Energy level changes represent another early warning sign. Dogs may sleep more during the day, show less enthusiasm for walks or play, or tire more easily during normal activities. These changes often develop so gradually that owners don’t recognize them until looking back after diagnosis.

The loss of urine-concentrating ability becomes particularly noticeable when dogs continue producing large volumes of dilute urine even when dehydrated. A healthy dog should concentrate their urine when water intake decreases, but dogs with kidney disease cannot perform this essential function, leading to continued water loss despite the body’s need to conserve fluids.

Advanced Symptoms and Complications

As kidney disease progresses, more obvious and concerning symptoms emerge. These advanced signs indicate significant kidney damage and require immediate veterinary attention to prevent further deterioration and manage complications.

Vomiting and nausea become prominent features as toxins accumulate in the bloodstream. The buildup of waste products that healthy kidneys would normally filter creates a condition called uremia, leading to gastrointestinal upset, loss of appetite, and general malaise. Dogs may vomit intermittently, show reluctance to eat, or demonstrate signs of nausea like excessive drooling or lip-licking.

The development of distinctive bad breath, often described as ammonia-like or sweet-smelling, results from uremic toxins affecting the mouth and respiratory system. This uremic breath often accompanies the formation of painful mouth ulcers, particularly along the gum line and tongue. These oral lesions make eating uncomfortable and contribute to decreased appetite and weight loss.

Anemia becomes increasingly common in advanced kidney disease as the kidneys fail to produce adequate erythropoietin, the hormone responsible for stimulating red blood cell production. Pale gums, weakness, and exercise intolerance indicate developing anemia. Without intervention, severe anemia can compromise oxygen delivery to vital organs.

Dehydration paradoxically worsens despite increased water consumption because damaged kidneys cannot conserve water effectively. Dogs may appear dehydrated with tacky gums, poor skin elasticity, and sunken eyes, even while drinking large volumes of water throughout the day.

Advanced kidney failure can also trigger secondary complications affecting other organ systems. High blood pressure develops as the kidneys struggle to regulate blood flow and fluid balance. Bone disease may emerge due to disrupted calcium and phosphorus metabolism, while bacterial infections become more common as the immune system weakens.

Congenital disease accounts for kidney problems in younger dogs, including conditions like polycystic kidney disease, kidney agenesis (absence of one kidney), and hereditary nephritis. These genetic conditions may not manifest until dogs reach middle age, despite being present from birth.

Dental disease creates an often-overlooked pathway for bacterial infections to reach the kidneys. Poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums, potentially seeding the kidneys and causing chronic inflammation. Regular dental care and professional cleanings can reduce this risk significantly.

Toxin exposure represents a major cause of both acute and chronic kidney damage. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) causes rapid, severe kidney failure and represents a veterinary emergency. Grapes and raisins can trigger acute kidney failure in some dogs, though the mechanism remains unclear. Certain medications, including some antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can damage kidney tissue, particularly in dehydrated or elderly dogs.

Environmental factors also contribute to kidney disease risk. Contaminated water sources may harbor bacteria like Leptospira, which can cause severe kidney infections. High blood pressure, whether primary or secondary to other conditions, accelerates kidney damage over time. Diabetes mellitus and other systemic diseases can contribute to kidney deterioration through various mechanisms.

Urinary tract infections, particularly recurrent episodes, can lead to ascending infections that damage kidney tissue. Dogs with anatomical abnormalities, immune system compromise, or those on certain medications face increased risk of developing these problematic infections.

Blood chemistry analysis forms the cornerstone of kidney disease diagnosis. Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels indicate decreased kidney function, though these traditional markers don’t rise until approximately 75% of kidney function is lost. Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) represents a more sensitive early biomarker, often detecting kidney dysfunction before creatinine elevation occurs.

Complete urinalysis provides crucial information about kidney function and disease progression. The urine protein-to-creatinine ratio helps assess the degree of protein loss through damaged kidneys, while urine specific gravity indicates the kidneys’ concentrating ability. Dilute urine (low specific gravity) despite dehydration suggests significant kidney impairment.

Blood pressure monitoring has become an essential component of kidney disease evaluation. Many dogs with chronic kidney disease develop high blood pressure, which can accelerate kidney damage and affect other organs. Regular blood pressure checks help guide treatment decisions and monitor response to therapy.

Imaging studies, including abdominal ultrasound and radiographs, help identify structural abnormalities, kidney stones, tumors, or other conditions affecting the urinary system. Ultrasound can reveal changes in kidney size, shape, and internal structure that support the diagnosis and help determine treatment approaches.

Physical examination provides important clues about your dog’s overall condition and disease severity. Veterinarians assess hydration status, examine mucous membranes for color and moisture, palpate the kidneys when possible, and evaluate body condition and weight changes. These findings help determine treatment priorities and monitor response to therapy.

Additional diagnostic tests may include urine culture to identify bacterial infections, complete blood count to assess for anemia, and specialized tests for underlying conditions like diabetes mellitus or immune-mediated diseases that could contribute to kidney problems.

Treatment Approaches for Acute Kidney Failure

Acute kidney failure represents a veterinary emergency requiring immediate, aggressive intervention to prevent permanent kidney damage and potentially save your dog’s life. The treatment approach focuses on supporting kidney function while addressing the underlying cause and managing complications.

Intensive intravenous fluid therapy forms the foundation of acute kidney failure treatment. Intravenous fluids play a critical role in flushing out the kidneys and bloodstream, facilitating the removal of toxins and supporting the recovery of mildly damaged kidney cells by restoring a healthy environment. IV fluids help restore proper hydration, improve blood flow to the kidneys, and promote diuresis (increased urine production) to help flush toxins from the system. The type, rate, and composition of fluids require careful monitoring and adjustment based on your dog’s response and laboratory values.

Aggressive treatment protocols may include medications to control nausea and vomiting, as persistent gastrointestinal upset can worsen dehydration and complicate recovery. Anti-nausea medications help dogs maintain nutrition and prevent further fluid losses through vomiting.

Electrolyte management becomes crucial as kidney failure disrupts normal mineral balance. Potassium supplementation may be necessary, while phosphorus levels require monitoring and potential intervention. Acid-base imbalances often need correction to prevent additional complications.

The prognosis for acute kidney failure depends heavily on the underlying cause and how quickly treatment begins. Dogs treated early for toxin exposure may recover completely, while those with severe infections or prolonged kidney injury may face ongoing complications. Some dogs stabilize with supportive care but develop chronic kidney disease requiring lifelong management.

Three potential outcomes exist for dogs with acute kidney failure: complete recovery with return to normal kidney function, stabilization with some degree of permanent kidney damage, or progression to chronic kidney disease or death despite aggressive intervention. Early recognition and immediate veterinary care significantly improve the chances of favorable outcomes.

Dietary modification represents one of the most important aspects of chronic kidney disease management. Specialized renal diets contain reduced levels of protein and phosphorus to decrease the kidney’s workload while maintaining adequate nutrition. These prescription diets help reduce the buildup of uremic toxins and slow the progression of secondary complications like bone disease.

Most dogs find the transition to renal diets challenging initially, as these foods often taste different from regular dog food. Gradual transition over 7-10 days, warming the food slightly, or mixing small amounts of palatable additions approved by your veterinarian can help with acceptance. The most appropriate diet for your dog depends on their stage of disease, body condition, and individual preferences.

Phosphate binders like aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate help control blood phosphorus levels when dietary restriction alone isn’t sufficient. These medications must be given with meals to effectively bind phosphorus in the digestive tract and prevent absorption.

Subcutaneous fluid administration at home provides ongoing hydration support and helps flush toxins from the system. Many dog owners successfully learn to administer supplemental fluids under the skin, typically 2-3 times per week depending on their dog’s needs. This treatment significantly improves quality of life and can extend survival times.

Blood pressure management becomes essential for most kidney patients, as high blood pressure accelerates kidney damage and affects other organs. ACE inhibitors like benazepril or enalapril help lower blood pressure while providing additional kidney protection, particularly in dogs with significant urine protein losses.

Additional medications may include calcitriol for managing calcium-phosphorus imbalances, erythropoietin-stimulating agents for kidney-related anemia, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements that may help slow disease progression. Each medication requires careful monitoring and dose adjustments based on your dog’s response and laboratory values. Tracking your dog's response to treatment is crucial, as it helps guide medication adjustments and overall care decisions.

Nutrition and Kidney Health

Nutrition is a cornerstone of managing chronic kidney disease in dogs. The most appropriate diet for a dog with kidney disease is one that supports kidney function while minimizing the buildup of waste products in the bloodstream. Veterinary nutritionists recommend diets that are lower in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, as these adjustments help reduce the workload on the kidneys and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease. At the same time, these specialized diets are carefully balanced to ensure your dog receives all the essential nutrients needed for overall health.

In addition to protein and mineral adjustments, diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress within the kidneys. These nutrients support the body’s natural defenses and may help protect remaining kidney tissue. Some dogs with kidney disease may also benefit from supplemental nutrients such as vitamin D and calcium, which help maintain strong bones and prevent mineral imbalances that can occur as kidney function declines.

Because every dog’s needs are unique, it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate diet for your pet’s condition and stage of kidney disease. Regular dietary assessments and adjustments ensure your dog continues to receive optimal nutrition as their needs change over time.

Hydration and Kidney Function

Maintaining proper hydration is vital for dogs with kidney disease, as their kidneys are less able to conserve water and concentrate urine. Dehydration can quickly worsen kidney function and accelerate the progression of kidney disease, making it essential to ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. Some dogs may benefit from having multiple water bowls placed throughout the home or using pet water fountains to encourage more frequent drinking.

In cases where oral water intake is not sufficient, subcutaneous fluid administration may be recommended by your veterinarian. This involves giving fluids under the skin to help maintain hydration and support kidney function, especially in dogs with advanced kidney disease. Many pet owners can learn to perform subcutaneous fluid administration at home, providing a valuable tool for ongoing management.

Monitoring your dog’s urine output and the concentration of their urine (specific gravity) can help detect early signs of dehydration or declining kidney function. Your veterinarian may also suggest adding water or low-sodium broths to your dog’s food to increase moisture intake and further reduce the risk of dehydration. These proactive steps can make a significant difference in your dog’s comfort and overall kidney health.

Monitoring Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a frequent and serious complication of kidney disease in dogs. Elevated blood pressure can further damage the kidneys and increase the risk of complications affecting the heart, eyes, and nervous system. The International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) strongly recommends regular blood pressure monitoring for all dogs with kidney disease in order to detect hypertension early and intervene promptly.

Routine blood pressure checks allow veterinarians to identify high blood pressure before it causes additional harm. If your dog is diagnosed with hypertension, medications may be prescribed to help control blood pressure and protect both kidney and cardiovascular health. Managing blood pressure is a key part of comprehensive care for kidney disease in dogs, as it can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

Regular monitoring also provides valuable information about your dog’s overall health status, as changes in blood pressure can signal the need for adjustments in treatment or further investigation for other underlying conditions. By staying vigilant, you and your veterinary team can help safeguard your dog’s kidneys and overall well-being.

Gastrointestinal Health

Gastrointestinal health is closely intertwined with kidney disease in dogs. As kidney function declines, waste products that would normally be filtered out can accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a reduced appetite. These gastrointestinal issues can make it challenging for dogs with kidney disease to maintain adequate nutrition and body weight.

Supporting a healthy gut is an important aspect of managing kidney disease. Providing a balanced diet tailored to your dog’s needs, along with veterinarian-recommended probiotics, can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and reduce inflammation. Regular monitoring of your dog’s gastrointestinal health allows for early detection of problems, enabling prompt intervention to prevent complications.

If your dog experiences persistent nausea or appetite loss, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-nausea medications or appetite stimulants to help ensure they continue to eat and receive the nutrients they need. Addressing gastrointestinal symptoms quickly not only improves your dog’s comfort but also supports their overall management of kidney disease.

Anemia and Kidney Failure

Anemia is a common and significant complication of kidney failure in dogs. The kidneys are responsible for producing erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. When kidney function declines, erythropoietin production drops, leading to a decrease in red blood cell count and resulting in anemia. This condition can cause symptoms such as pale gums, lethargy, weakness, and a reduced appetite, all of which can impact your dog’s quality of life.

Regular monitoring of your dog’s red blood cell count and hematocrit is essential for early detection of anemia in dogs with kidney failure. If anemia is identified, your veterinarian may recommend treatments such as erythropoiesis-stimulating agents to encourage red blood cell production, or in severe cases, blood transfusions to restore healthy levels. Addressing anemia promptly can help improve your dog’s energy, comfort, and overall well-being, making it a critical component of managing kidney failure in dogs.

By staying alert to signs of anemia and working closely with your veterinary team, you can help ensure your dog receives the support they need to manage this challenging aspect of kidney disease and maintain the best possible quality of life.

Prognosis and Quality of Life

The prognosis for dogs with kidney failure varies dramatically based on the type of disease, stage at diagnosis, response to treatment, and quality of ongoing care. Understanding realistic expectations helps owners make informed decisions about treatment options and long-term planning.

Dogs with acute kidney failure face an uncertain prognosis that depends heavily on the underlying cause and speed of intervention. Those treated promptly for toxin exposure may recover completely, while dogs with severe infections or extensive kidney damage may develop chronic complications. Early aggressive treatment offers the best chance for recovery or stabilization.

Chronic kidney disease follows a progressive course, but many dogs can live comfortably for months to years with appropriate management. Dogs diagnosed in early stages often maintain good quality of life for extended periods, while those diagnosed in advanced stages require more intensive management and face shorter survival times.

Quality of life assessment becomes crucial for dogs with chronic kidney disease. Owners should monitor appetite, energy levels, comfort, and overall happiness to help guide treatment decisions. Many dogs adapted well to their treatment routines and continue enjoying normal activities like walks, playtime, and family interactions.

Regular veterinary monitoring allows for treatment adjustments as the disease progresses. Laboratory values, blood pressure measurements, and clinical assessments help determine when medications need changing or additional interventions become necessary. This ongoing partnership between owners and veterinarians optimizes outcomes and maintains quality of life.

The decision about end-of-life care requires careful consideration of your dog’s suffering, quality of life, and response to treatment. Many dogs with kidney disease maintain good quality of life until very near the end, while others may experience increasing discomfort that affects their happiness and wellbeing.

Prevention Strategies

While not all forms of kidney disease can be prevented, several strategies can reduce your dog’s risk of developing kidney problems or slow the progression of existing disease. Prevention efforts focus on maintaining overall health, avoiding known risk factors, and enabling early detection through regular veterinary care.

Regular veterinary checkups become increasingly important as dogs age, with senior dogs benefiting from examinations and blood work every 6 months. Early detection of kidney disease allows for prompt intervention that can slow progression and improve outcomes. Many kidney problems remain asymptomatic until advanced stages, making routine screening essential.

Maintaining excellent dental hygiene helps prevent bacterial infections that can spread to the kidneys through the bloodstream. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings reduce the bacterial load in your dog’s mouth and decrease infection risk. Dental disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three, making prevention efforts crucial for overall health.

Avoiding toxic substances represents one of the most effective prevention strategies. Keep antifreeze, cleaning products, and other chemicals securely stored away from curious dogs. Never give grapes or raisins to dogs, and avoid using human medications unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian. Be cautious with pain medications, as some can damage kidneys, particularly in dehydrated or elderly dogs.

Providing fresh, clean water encourages adequate hydration and supports normal kidney function. Some dogs prefer running water from fountains, while others enjoy multiple water bowls throughout the house. Proper hydration helps prevent urinary tract infections and supports the kidneys’ filtering functions.

Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and immune system disorders helps protect kidney function over time. These conditions can accelerate kidney damage when left uncontrolled, making comprehensive health management essential for prevention.

Dogs from breeds predisposed to hereditary kidney conditions benefit from genetic testing when available and regular monitoring throughout their lives. Knowing your dog’s risk factors allows for earlier intervention and more vigilant screening protocols.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Recognizing when your dog needs immediate veterinary attention can make the difference between successful treatment and irreversible kidney damage. Understanding the warning signs and knowing when to act quickly helps ensure your pet receives appropriate care when time is critical.

Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog shows any combination of kidney failure symptoms, particularly vomiting, excessive thirst and urination, loss of appetite, and lethargy occurring together. These signs warrant same-day evaluation, as kidney disease can progress rapidly without intervention.

Emergency situations requiring immediate attention include severe vomiting that prevents keeping water down, inability to urinate or straining to urinate, extreme weakness or collapse, seizures, or any signs of toxin ingestion. These conditions represent potential emergencies that could quickly become life-threatening without prompt treatment.

For dogs already diagnosed with kidney disease, schedule regular monitoring appointments as recommended by your veterinarian. These visits typically occur every 3-6 months depending on disease stage and may include blood work, urine testing, blood pressure measurement, and physical examination to assess disease progression and treatment response.

Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice changes in your dog’s condition, including worsening appetite, increased vomiting, changes in urination patterns, or decreased energy levels. Early intervention for complications often prevents more serious problems and helps maintain quality of life.

Establishing a relationship with veterinary specialists, such as internal medicine specialists or veterinary nephrologists, can provide additional expertise for complex cases. These specialists offer advanced diagnostic capabilities and treatment options that may not be available at general practice veterinary clinics.

Don’t delay seeking care when concerned about your dog’s health. Kidney damage often proves irreversible, making early intervention crucial for the best possible outcomes. Trust your instincts as a pet owner—you know your dog better than anyone and can often detect subtle changes that indicate developing problems.

FAQ

---

Can dogs live a normal life with kidney failure?

Dogs with chronic kidney failure can live comfortable lives for months to years with proper management, though they require ongoing veterinary care, dietary modifications, and regular monitoring. The key is early detection and consistent treatment to maintain quality of life and slow disease progression.

How quickly does kidney failure progress in dogs?

Acute kidney failure develops suddenly over days, while chronic kidney disease progresses slowly over months to years. Most clinical signs don’t appear until about 75% of kidney function is lost, making early detection challenging but crucial for better outcomes.

Is kidney failure painful for dogs?

Kidney failure itself isn’t typically painful, but complications like mouth ulcers, nausea, and dehydration can cause discomfort. Advanced stages may cause weakness and general malaise, but proper treatment can manage these symptoms effectively to maintain comfort.

What’s the difference between kidney failure and kidney disease?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but kidney disease refers to any condition affecting the kidneys, while kidney failure specifically indicates the kidneys’ inability to function properly. Chronic kidney disease can progress to kidney failure without proper management.

Should I change my dog’s diet if they have kidney problems?

Yes, veterinary-prescribed renal diets are crucial for managing kidney disease. These diets are specially formulated with reduced protein and phosphorus levels to decrease kidney workload while maintaining proper nutrition. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, as the wrong diet can worsen kidney function.

Disclaimer:

This content does not constitute medical advice for your pet. If you are concerned about your dog’s health or suspect kidney problems, contact your veterinarian promptly for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.

Disclaimer:

This content does not constitute medical advice for your pet. If you are concerned about your dog’s health or suspect kidney problems, contact your veterinarian promptly for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.