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MARCH NEWSLETTER

Kidney Disease in Dogs and Cats

March is Kidney Awareness Month, and with Kidney Awareness Day on March 12, we’re dedicating this month’s newsletter to an important—but often overlooked—part of your pet’s health: the kidneys.

Your pet’s kidneys work hard every day to filter toxins from the blood, maintain proper hydration, regulate blood pressure, and keep the body’s minerals balanced. Because kidney disease can develop slowly and quietly, many pets show few signs until the condition is more advanced. That’s why awareness, prevention, and early detection are so important.

Throughout this month’s newsletter, we’ll share helpful information about what the kidneys do, common warning signs of kidney disease, and simple ways you can help support your pet’s kidney health. With regular veterinary care, good nutrition, and attention to changes in your pet’s habits, kidney problems can often be detected earlier and managed more effectively.

By learning a little more about kidney health this month, you’re taking another step toward helping your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Role of the Kidneys
The kidneys perform several essential functions in the body. They filter the blood to remove waste products, regulate hydration and blood pressure, and maintain proper electrolyte balance. In addition, the kidneys conserve important substances the body needs to maintain healthy internal fluid balance. The functional units of the kidneys responsible for these processes are called nephrons.

Acute vs. Chronic Kidney Disease
Kidney damage can occur in different ways and is generally classified into two main categories: acute kidney disease and chronic kidney disease.

Acute Kidney Disease (AKI) occurs when there is a sudden injury to the nephrons that make up the kidney. Common causes include toxin exposure (i.e. antifreeze, Easter/Tiger lily exposure, NSAID overdose), bacterial infections, and urinary obstruction. Pets experiencing acute kidney injury may develop sudden lethargy, changes in urination (either increased or decreased), vomiting, and decreased appetite. In many cases, acute kidney injury has a greater potential for reversal compared to chronic kidney disease if diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) develops gradually over time, and in many cases the underlying cause cannot be determined. One of the earliest signs pet owners may notice is an increase in both water consumption and urine production. As the disease progresses, additional signs may include lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and dehydration. It is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as any of these signs are observed. Early diagnosis can potentially help slow the progression of the disease. Although there is no cure for CKD, treatment and monitoring can help manage symptoms and improve both quality and length of life.

Diagnosis
Kidney disease is typically diagnosed through blood and urine testing. Blood tests measure levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA). Elevated values may indicate reduced kidney function. The urine sample is used to measure urine specific gravity (USG), which reflects the kidneys’ ability to concentrate urine. These results help determine the presence and severity of kidney disease. In some cases, imaging (radiographs or ultrasound) may be recommended to evaluate the size and internal structure of the kidneys.

Treatment
Treatment for acute kidney injury typically involves hospitalization. Pets are commonly placed on intravenous (IV) fluids to support hydration and kidney function. Depending on the underlying cause, additional treatments such as antibiotics or other medications may be administered. Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medications, as well as appetite stimulants are frequently used to manage symptoms. Blood tests are frequently repeated during hospitalization to monitor progress and guide treatment adjustments.

For pets diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, initial treatment is similar to treatment for AKI, focusing on correcting dehydration and stabilizing electrolyte imbalances, along with medications to treat vomiting, nausea, and inappetence. Long-term management of CKD typically includes maintaining adequate hydration, encouraging increased water intake, and implementing dietary modifications. Therapeutic kidney diets often contain restricted phosphorus levels and controlled protein amounts to reduce strain on the kidneys. Appetite stimulants or additional medications may be prescribed as needed. Treatment plans vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease.

Conclusion

There is no single treatment plan that works for every dog or cat diagnosed with kidney disease. While kidney disease cannot be cured, appropriate medical management and regular veterinary monitoring can help control symptoms, slow disease progression, and support a good quality of life for affected pets.