Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is one of the most common medical problems of pets. Because the kidneys remove waste from the bloodstream and regulate body fluids, kidney failure is considered very serious. In fact, kidney disease is a leading killer of cats and dogs.² Chronic kidney disease is a gradual, progressive disease in which visible symptoms usually do not appear until much of the kidney is damaged.

STAGES OF KIDNEY DISEASE

		Loss of Renal Reserve – Early signs of PU/PD

		Renal Insufficiency – Early warning signs, such as increased thirst, may begin to appear

		Renal Failure (Azotemia) – Kidneys cannot eliminate waste efficiently, causing signs of illness

		Advanced Kidney Failure (Uremia) – Severe signs of illness appear; eventually, collapse and death result

There is no cure for pets with chronic renal failure, but we can alter the course of the disease. Early detection, medical treatment, proper nutrition, and good pet owner care is vital to extending and improving pets� lives. Kidney disease screening should be done annually in dogs and cats 7 years old and older. Ask your veterinarian about screening your pets.

²Morris Animal Foundation. 1997 Animal Health Survey. Denver, CO.