Signs And Symptoms Of Canine Kidney Failure

This article will help to explain the two types of canine kidney failure. Read about what causes this condition in dog's. Discover what happens when a dog's kidneys start to fail. The article will also help to explain the causes for acute and chronic renal failure.

When a dog's kidneys cannot remove waste or concentrate urine they suffer from renal failure. Animals bodies produce toxins every day. The toxins are circulated in the kidneys before being dissolved in water, filtered out and excreted through urination. A kidney that is healthy produces highly concentrated urine. Therefore, a huge amount of toxins can be managed and excreted in a small amount of water.

A kidney that is failing requires a larger amount of water to be able to excrete the same amount of toxins. A dog that is suffering from kidney disease will drink large amounts of water until he cannot take any more and the toxin levels in his bloodstream begin to increase. The two types of canine kidney failure are acute and chronic.

Acute renal failure is a condition that occurs suddenly. It can be caused by consuming a poison such as antifreeze, human medication or eating the Easter Lily Plant. If a dog suffers from a powerful bacterial infection it may lead to this condition. Other causes include dehydration due to the dog being left without fresh drinking water. Reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to surgical procedure, heat stroke or heart disease. Canine kidney failure can also be caused by a blockage in the urinary system.

In certain instances acute canine kidney failure can be turned around. However it may become chronic in other instances. Sadly in many cases of chronic canine kidney failure it is irreversible. With acute kidney disease the symptoms are quick onset and severe. It is important to look out for vomiting, complete lack of appetite, severe exhaustion, difficulty urinating, decreased urine output, disorientation, physical weakness and loss of coordination. Acute renal failure is extremely serious, life threatening and immediate action is needed if the dog's life is to be saved.

If you are aware of any of the above symptoms or know your dog has consumed a poison you should contact a vet immediately. There is no time to waste if your dog has kidney failure. If the diagnosis is acute canine kidney failure then your dog will be hospitalized for intensive treatment. This can often be a worrying time for dog owners. It might help to take a friend or family member with you when you take your dog to the vet. You'll probably need the help and support that a close family member can bring you.

If your dog is diagnosed with ARF then you need to be prepared for the worst. If your dog survives ARF then her chances of a full recovery may still be slim depending on how seriously affected the organs are. It also depends on the reason why your dog has suffered renal failure and the treatment she receives.

Urine output can determine the chances of recovery in a dog. If the urine output is very low or none existent as treatment progresses then unfortunately the prognosis is not good. If the dog's health is not moving forward it may be possible to use dialysis or organ transplant.