How is canine kidney disease diagnosed?
Blood and urine tests are used to diagnose acute kidney failure and to assess the severity of disease. Other tests, such as radiographs (X-rays), ultrasound and special blood tests are usually necessary to help determine what might have caused the kidney failure. Sometimes a biopsy of the kidney is recommended.
What breed of dog is prone to kidney failure?
Breed: Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German shepherds, are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease. Learn more about a very special German shepherd named Buddy that was diagnosed with kidney failure.

How fast does kidney disease progress in cats?
SDMA reaches 15 at an average age of 6-9 years. Kidney failure and death follow 8-10 years. Anything that causes kidney damage can accelerate kidney deterioration. Genetic diseases such as polycystic kidney disease can cause kidney failure at an early age, as can kidney damage from other causes.
Is tuna bad for cats with kidney disease?
Commercially available kidney support diets tend to be quite palatable because it is so important for these cats to eat in a way that slows the progression of their CKD. If needed, adding water, tuna juice, or low sodium chicken broth may increase the flavor and acceptance.

What happens when a cat’s kidneys start to fail?
Because the kidneys perform a variety of different functions, the clinical signs of renal failure can be somewhat variable. The most common changes seen are weight loss, poor hair quality, halitosis (bad breath), variable appetite which may be associated with mouth ulcers, lethargy, and depression.
Which is worse a purebred or a mixed breed dog?
Only one disorder – cranial cruciate ligament rupture – was more likely in mixed-breed dogs than purebred dogs. The risk was significantly higher – 30%. The reason could be that combining different physical conformations reduces the resilience of the ligaments.
Why are purebreds more likely to go to the hospital?
Breeds predisposed to certain conditions may be referred more to these hospitals. Prior studies showed purebred dog owners are more likely to spend money at a referral clinic. So a condition may get diagnosed at a higher rate than it would in the broader population of dogs.
Why are purebred dogs more likely to get a referral?
Prior studies showed purebred dog owners are more likely to spend money at a referral clinic. So a condition may get diagnosed at a higher rate than it would in the broader population of dogs. This would mean the study caused overrepresentation of some problems in purebred dogs.
What kind of kidney disease does my dog have?
There are genetic links to various kinds of kidney disease for many purebred dogs. Some young dogs fail to develop normal kidneys, or have kidneys that are large and grape-like, with many fluid- filled cysts. These dogs show signs of kidney disease as youngsters.
Which is the best book for dog renal disease?
Olsen’s book, Raw & Natural Nutrition for Dogs, offers detailed chapters on food, veterinary testing, and how to provide optimal nutrition support for dogs who are suffering renal disease and many other diseases that are critically affected by nutrition.
When to take your dog to the vet for kidney disease?
If your dog has any stage of kidney disease, you do not want to waste weeks or even months before making indicated dietary changes and obtaining your veterinarian’s aggressive intervention in this heart-wrenching disease.
What foods can cause kidney disease in dogs?
Lots of household items can damage the kidneys, not just antifreeze. Ordinary table foods like grapes and raisins; certain commercial jerky treat products; common OTC medications like aspirin or other nonsteroidals (NSAIDs); or prescribed medications can all cause kidney disease. Venoms, pesticides and heavy metals are less common toxins.