Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs

By Zaneeta Thomas

Instructions

Types

Step 1:
Kidney disease can be acute or chronic, depending upon the cause. Acute kidney disease occurs suddenly, while the chronic version develops slowly over the course of months or years.

Cause

Step 1:
Canine kidney disease can be caused by a variety of sources, with the most common being from toxic chemicals, such as rat poison or antifreeze. Heart disease or infections can also be responsible.

Symptoms

Step 1:
Because the symptoms of canine kidney disease are common in other diseases, as well, careful attention should be paid to your pet's behavior. The most common symptoms are increased urination and water consumption, diarrhea, vomiting and fatigue.

Diagnosis

Step 1:
A veterinarian typically tests blood and urine to determine if the dog is suffering from kidney disease, but additional tests, such as X-rays or ultrasounds, may also be conducted. A kidney biopsy is the most accurate test for diagnosis.

Treatments

Step 1:
Proper treatment of kidney disease depends upon the severity of the illness and its underlying cause. A veterinarian may prescribe medication to treat infections or recommend a change in your dog's diet to help reduce stress on the kidneys.

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