Renal Disease in Pets
ust like in people, the kidneys play an important role in your pet's health by filtering out wastes in the blood throughurine. As kidneys fail, they can't adequately clear the blood of toxins which build up, slowly poisoning your pet's body. Kidney disease affects nearly 11% of cats and over 5% of dogs and is a leading cause of death. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is usually the result of aging; the kidneys simply "wear out". This process can go on for years before the effects are noticed by the owner. Signs of the disease typically occur between 7 and 10 years of age. Early detection affords the best prognosis and early treatment will increase longevity. |
| If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, talk to your veterinarian immediately: | |
| • Increased thirst and need to urinate • Loss of appetite and weight loss |
• Weakness and exercise intolerance • Bad breath |
| If diagnosed with CKD, your veterinarian may recommend changing your pet's diet. Low protein, low phosphorus, and low sodium diets have been proven to be helpful in lessening the stress on the kidneys. Your vet may also recommend intravenous or subcutaneous fluids to rehydrate and stabilize your pet. Other medications for various symptoms, including high blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea and anemia may be prescribed. |
| If diagnosed with CKD, your veterinarian may recommend changing your pet's diet. Low protein, low phosphorus, and low sodium diets have been proven to be helpful in lessening the stress on the kidneys. Your vet may also recommend intravenous or subcutaneous fluids to rehydrate and stabilize your pet. Other medications for various symptoms, including high blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea and anemia may be prescribed. |
| After the diagnosis of CKD is made, the disease will eventually progress. With the treatments listed above, your pet can have a good quality of life and a potentially extended lifespan. It is important to adhere to the recommendations of your veterinarian, as well as to bring your pet back for routine re-checks. This may be every few weeks, if the disease is severe enough, to every six months or one year, if the disease is caught early. Adjustments in medication and treatments will be made accordingly, depending on the results of the re-checks. |
| Azodyl Small Caps (90 count) |
Azodyl (60 Capsules) |
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Kidney Disease in Pets