KIDNEY FAILURE
Chronic renal failure is a long-term decline in kidney function. Treatment goals are to reduce the workload of the kidneys, treat secondary problems, and improve the quality of life for the pet.
Renal failure is an inability of the kidneys to perform their functions sufficiently to prevent the development of clinical signs. Chronic renal failure is one of the most common medical problems in older dogs and cats and is a leading cause of death in these pets.
Chronic renal failure has many different causes, including inherited defects, infections, toxic substances, nutritional factors, and immune system defects. Once chronic renal failure develops, it cannot be reversed and often progresses. Therefore, any measure that helps prevent the disease, delays the age of occurrence, or slows the progression of the disease will help a pet live longer. The disease develops over several months or years, so the changes you see may be subtle. Generally the syndrome begins with a pet gradually drinking more water and urinating more.
Blood tests, urinalysis, radiographs, ultrasounds, and blood pressure measurements will help to detect the disease. Fluid therapy and medications are the recommended treatment, along with diet change.