What is kidney failure in dogs?
Kidney failure is a condition that damages your dog’s kidneys, leading to kidney or renal disease. The most common form is known as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), which affects about 1 in every 10 dogs.1
Your dog’s kidneys are vital to removing waste substances from the bloodstream and maintaining the balance of fluid and minerals within the body. But if the kidneys can’t do their job, the result could be life-threatening for your dog.
Age
The chance of developing kidney disease greatly increases as dogs get older (over 10-15 years of age)
Nutrition
Some dog foods high in phosphorus, sodium, and protein can accelerate the progression of CKD.
Genetics
Some breeds are more likely to develop certain kidney conditions.
Illness
Other illnesses and health issues can contribute to the worsening of CKD in dogs.
Dehydration
Any conditions that lead to dehydration (eg, vomiting, diarrhea, shock) can worsen kidney function and contribute to CKD progression
Early detection of kidney failure in your dog
Signs of serious illness only appear after 75% of kidney function is already lost, so the sooner kidney disease is diagnosed, the more time there is to address the underlying cause or slow the disease’s progression. CKD is progressive and irreversible, but your veterinarian can help provide long-term care and show you how to track signs in older dogs.
What are the signs of kidney disease in dogs?
The signs of early-stage kidney disease are not visible. On diagnosis, CKD has already been present for some time but may be managed with the help of vet-approved dog food for kidney disease. Signs of late-stage kidney disease tend to be similar but are far more noticeable to pet parents.
Nutrition for dogs with kidney disease
If your dog has kidney problems, the right nutrition may be able to make a positive impact on their lives and potentially even lengthen their lifespan. Specially formulated nutrition for dogs with kidney disease can be beneficial by having less protein and phosphorous than other pet foods. Phosphorus restriction can lessen the severity of the symptoms and progression of kidney damage, while controlled, high-quality proteins can help restore normal acid-base levels.
What about nutritional yeast for dogs with kidney disease?
While it has gained some popularity online, yeast is relatively high in phosphorus, which could be a concern for dogs with CKD. Similarly, many websites now propose creating a raw diet for dogs with kidney disease but fail to mention the range of factors to consider, such as contamination risks, providing the right balance of nutrients, and the overall cost. When looking into nutritional options for dogs with kidney disease, it’s always best to get a specific recommendation from your veterinarian.
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References:
1Lulich JP, Osborne CA, O’Brien TD, Polzin DJ. Feline renal failure: questions, answers, questions. Compend Contin Educ Pract Vet. 1992;14(2):127–153.
