The kidneys are important organs within the abdomen and receive
about 20% of the blood supply from the heart. They filter the blood
and excrete waste product into the urine. The kidneys also produce
hormones that are responsible for the production of red blood cells
and are instrumental in helping to maintain blood pressure.
What is Kidney Disease?
Kidney (Renal) Disease is a broad ranging term that describes the
existence of kidney damage, but not the cause, the severity or the
amount of damage present.
Renal failure describes the state where kidney function is decreased
to the extent that toxic by-products are present in the blood. Renal
failure occurs when approximately ¾ of kidney function is lost.
Acute Renal Failure occurs when there is an abrupt decrease in renal
function, usually caused by a toxic injury or by decreased oxygen
and blood supply to the kidneys. In some cases acute renal failure
can be reversible, where blood supply can be restored quickly or
toxins can be removed from the body.
Chronic Renal Failure occurs over a period of months to years and is
non-reversible. Treatments are available for chronic kidney disease
and are based on a threefold approach; to reduce the work-load of
the remaining renal tissue, reducing the clinical symptoms
associated with renal disease and delaying the progression of kidney
damage.
What causes Chronic Renal Disease?
Many things have the potential to cause renal damage, including
infections, toxins (such as snake-bites, spider bites and household
chemicals), urinary obstructions, cancers, inherited and congenital
disorders.
How do I know if my dog or cat is
affected?
The usual symptoms of renal disease include loss of appetite, weight
loss, increased thirst and excessive urination. Older animals may
show increased signs of gum disease.
Definitive diagnosis of renal disease usually requires a urine
sample and blood tests. Yearly examination of urine can be performed
free of charge when a sample is produced at vaccination.
