Go to a clinic immediately if
- Collapse, difficulty breathing, a seizure or markedly reduced responsiveness
Possible signs
- Increased thirst and urination
- Gradual loss of weight or muscle
- Reduced appetite, nausea or vomiting
Contact a veterinarian today if
- The pet stops eating, vomits repeatedly, is very weak or appears dehydrated
What it is
The kidneys remove waste from blood, balance water and minerals, and help regulate blood pressure and red-blood-cell production. In chronic kidney disease, functioning nephrons are progressively and irreversibly lost, but appropriate management can slow progression and preserve quality of life. A pet may look normal early on; later signs include larger volumes of dilute urine, increased thirst, weight loss, dehydration, poor appetite, vomiting and weakness.
What to expect at the veterinarian
The veterinarian will assess hydration, weight and muscle condition, blood pressure and possible concurrent disease. Diagnosis relies on a pattern rather than one value: repeat blood and urine tests, assessment of urine protein, and sometimes ultrasound or radiographs. Depending on stage and complications, care may include a kidney-support diet, control of nausea or blood pressure, phosphorus management, fluids and scheduled monitoring.
Sources
- Guideline or consensus statement. Chronic kidney disease