Your pet’s kidneys are essential for filtering out metabolic waste products and toxins from the bloodstream, and if these organs fail to function properly, your four-legged friend can become seriously ill. Whether kidney disease is acute or chronic, early detection is critical for affording the best outcome for your pet. Read our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team’s guide to learn how to identify kidney disease in your pet, and why early diagnosis is so important.

The kidneys’ role in pets

The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining your pet’s overall health. These bean-shaped organs filter and remove waste products from the blood, regulate fluid and electrolyte balances, and help in the production of hormones that control blood pressure and red blood cell production. In essence, the kidneys act as the body’s natural filtration system and play a pivotal role in sustaining various physiological processes.

Chronic kidney disease in pets

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in pets is a progressive and irreversible condition that adversely affects the kidneys’ normal function. This debilitating ailment is characterized by the renal tissues’ gradual deterioration, compromising the kidneys’ ability to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. As the disease advances, toxin accumulation in the body becomes inevitable, leading to systemic complications. 

Chronic kidney disease causes in pets

CKD in pets can have various underlying causes, each contributing to gradual renal function deterioration. Understanding CKD’s potential causes is crucial, as you can identify your pet’s risk factors and mitigate this condition’s development or progression. Key CKD causes include:

  • Age-related changes — As pets age, their organs’ wear and tear, including the kidneys, can lead to diminished functionality over time.
  • Genetic predisposition — Certain breeds are susceptible to genetic factors that increase CKD’s likelihood.
  • Infections — Bacterial or viral infections affecting the kidneys can contribute to CKD development if left untreated.
  • Urinary tract obstructions — Urinary tract blockages, such as kidney stones or tumors, can impede normal urine flow and lead to kidney damage.
  • Toxin exposure — Pets may be exposed to various toxins in their environment, including certain plants, chemicals, or medications, which can impact their kidney health detrimentally.
  • High blood pressure (i.e., hypertension) — Elevated blood pressure can strain the kidneys’ delicate blood vessels, accelerating CKD progression.
  • Autoimmune diseases — Disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues may affect the kidneys, contributing to chronic inflammation and damage.

Chronic kidney disease signs in pets

Identifying CKD in pets requires a keen awareness of subtle signs that may indicate compromised kidney function. Keep an eye out for the following signs, as they could indicate  your pet has CKD:

  • Increased thirst and urination — A noticeable spike in water consumption and frequent urination suggest the kidneys are struggling to concentrate urine effectively.
  • Appetite loss — A diminished interest in food or a reluctance to eat can be an early sign of CKD-related nausea or mouth ulcers.
  • Weight loss — CKD can lead to a decreased appetite and weight loss, as the body may struggle to retain nutrients.
  • Vomiting — Persistent vomiting may occur in response to toxin buildup in the bloodstream, making your pet feel nauseous.
  • Lethargy — An energy level decline may result from CKD’s systemic effects on the body.
  • Changes in urinary habits — Alterations in urination patterns, including increased frequency or changes in urine color, can indicate kidney dysfunction.

Early detection and diagnosis of chronic kidney disease in pets

Diagnosing CKD in pets involves a multifaceted approach that underscores early detection’s significance for optimal management. By the time your pet exhibits signs, they have already lost up to 75% of their kidney function. The kidneys are tremendously skilled at compensating for declining function and fail to show visible signs until much of the renal tissue has been damaged.

Ideally, your pet should undergo regular screening tests during annual or semiannual veterinary wellness visits to evaluate their kidney function and overall health. Blood tests, including serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, provide crucial information about kidney health. Red blood cell counts, urinalysis, and blood pressure monitoring will also help diagnose and stage renal dysfunction.

While these routine screening tests provide valuable information, early CKD stages may not always be evident through these traditional markers, which is where symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) testing comes into play. SDMA is a more sensitive indicator of kidney function, able to detect abnormalities with as little as 40% kidney function loss when other markers may still fall within the normal range. Early CKD detection is paramount, because our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team can intervene in a timely manner and initiate appropriate treatment plans, potentially slowing disease progression.

Managing chronic kidney disease in pets

While CKD is a progressive condition, the disease’s progression can be slowed with proper management. We may recommend a combination of dietary changes, medications, and fluid therapy to support your pet’s kidney function. As your pet’s condition changes, we can implement further supportive measures, ensuring blood pressure and red blood cell production are maintained.

Early CKD detection is critical for preserving your pet’s quality of life. Schedule your four-legged friend’s screening tests with our Southern Crossing Animal Hospital team.