Kidney Failure In Dogs Symptoms

You love your dog, and your dog means the world to you. As such, you want to be sure that they’re as healthy as possible and that they stay that way throughout their lifetime. Kidney failure in dogs’ symptoms can help keep your canine companion out of the doghouse by alerting you when there’s something wrong with them before it’s too late. This guide will provide 10 common kidney failure in dogs symptoms to watch out for so that you can spot any issues early on and get treatment before they become serious problems.

Kidney Failure In Dogs Symptoms

Dogs are susceptible to kidney failure just like humans. The main difference is that they can’t tell us when something is wrong. As dog owners, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of kidney failure so we can get our furry friends the help they need. Here are ten signs to watch out for

1) Weight loss

2) Nausea and vomiting

3) Pale gums

4) Loss of balance or stumbling

5) Chemical smell to the breath

6) Significant loss of appetite

7) Fever or elevated body temperature (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit)

8 ) Swollen abdomen

9 ) Shortness of breath

10 ) Seizures

1) Weight loss

One of the first signs of kidney failure in dogs is weight loss. Even if your dog is eating the same amount of food, they may start to lose weight because their body isn’t able to absorb all the nutrients. You may also notice that your dog is drinking more water than usual and urinating more often. If you notice any of these changes, take your dog to the vet for a check-up.

2) Nausea & Vomiting

One of the first signs of kidney failure in dogs is nausea and vomiting. This is usually caused by a build-up of toxins in the blood, as the kidneys are not able to filter them out effectively. If your dog is nauseous, they may refuse to eat or drink, and may also start to lose weight. Other symptoms of nausea and vomiting can include pale gums, loss of balance, or stumbling. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible for a check-up.

3) Paleness of Gums

One of the earliest signs of kidney failure in dogs is paleness of the gums. This is caused by anemia, which occurs when the kidneys are not able to produce enough erythropoietin (a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production). As the disease progresses, you may also notice that your dog’s gums are more swollen and bleeding easily. If your dog’s gums are pale, it’s important to take him to the vet for a checkup.

4) Imbalance / Stumbling

One of the common kidney failure in dogs symptoms you might notice is your pup losing their balance or stumbling more often than usual. This is because their kidneys are struggling to filter out toxins, which can lead to neurological problems. If you notice your dog starting to stagger or fall over more often, take them to the vet for a check-up.

5) Lack of Appetite

One of the most common signs of kidney failure in dogs is a loss of appetite. Your dog may go off their food completely or just seem less interested in eating. This can happen for a number of reasons, including kidney disease, infection, stress, or even certain medications. If you notice your dog has lost their appetite, take them to the vet for a check-up.

6) No More Production of Urine

One of the most serious kidney failure in dogs symptoms is no longer producing urine. When this happens, it’s a sign that your dog’s kidneys are no longer able to filter out toxins and waste from their blood. This can lead to a build-up of toxins in their system, which can be deadly. If you notice that your dog has stopped urinating, or is only producing very small amounts of urine, take them to the vet immediately.

7) Excessive Thirst

One of the first and most common signs of kidney failure in dogs is excessive thirst. If your dog is drinking more water than usual, you’ll want to take notice. Excessive thirst can lead to increased urination, which can then cause dehydration. If you notice your dog is drinking a lot more water than normal, take him to the vet for a checkup.

8) Bad Breath (Chemical Smell)

One of the first and most noticeable signs of kidney failure in dogs is bad breath. Your dog’s breath may take on a chemical smell, which is caused by the build-up of toxins in their body. If your dog’s breath smells unusual, take them to the vet for a check-up. The doctor will likely order blood work to see if there are any abnormalities with the kidneys or liver.

With time, there are also other symptoms that can develop, such as nausea and vomiting, loss of balance or stumbling while walking, weight loss, pale gums, significant loss of appetite.

9) Loss of Energy / Lethargy

One of the most common signs of kidney failure in dogs is a sudden loss of energy or lethargy. If your dog suddenly seems tired all the time, it could be a sign that their kidneys are struggling to filter out toxins. Along with lethargy, you may also notice your dog isn’t interested in playing or going for walks like they used too. If you think your dog might be suffering from kidney failure, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.

10 ) Seizures

One of the most serious symptoms of kidney failure in dogs is seizures. Seizures are caused by a lack of oxygen in the brain, and they can be very dangerous. If your dog has a seizure, it’s important to get them to a vet immediately. Seizures can be a sign that the kidney failure is very advanced and your dog may not have much time left.

What Causes Kidney Failure In Dogs?

Kidney failure, also known as renal failure, in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, broadly categorized into two main types: acute and chronic.

Acute kidney failure: This type of kidney failure develops suddenly (within hours or days) and can be caused by:

Toxins: Ingestion of toxins like antifreeze, certain medications, household cleaners, or harmful foods (like grapes or raisins) can damage the kidneys.
Infections: Bacterial infections, such as leptospirosis, can affect kidney function.
Dehydration: Severe dehydration from excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of access to water can decrease blood flow to the kidneys, leading to damage.
Heatstroke: This condition can cause widespread inflammation and organ damage, including the kidneys.
Urinary obstructions: Blockages in the urinary tract can prevent urine from flowing properly, leading to pressure buildup and kidney damage.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD): This type of kidney failure develops gradually over weeks, months, or even years and often has no single identifiable cause. However, some potential contributing factors include:

Ageing: As dogs age, their kidney function naturally declines.
Congenital diseases: Some dogs are born with developmental abnormalities in their kidneys that can lead to CKD later in life.
Genetic predispositions: Certain dog breeds are more prone to developing CKD than others.
Dental disease: While the exact link is still being studied, there’s evidence suggesting that chronic dental issues can contribute to CKD in dogs.
Other diseases: Underlying conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or immune system disorders can also damage the kidneys over time.

Treatment & Prognosis For Renal Failure In Dogs

Treatment for renal failure in dogs depends on several factors, including:

Type of kidney failure: Acute or chronic
Underlying cause: If identifiable
Severity of the condition

However, the general goals of treatment are:

Manage symptoms: This includes addressing issues like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and electrolyte imbalances.
Slow disease progression: This may involve dietary changes, medication, and fluid therapy.
Support overall health: Maintaining proper hydration, managing blood pressure, and addressing secondary infections are crucial.

Here are some common treatment options for renal failure in dogs:

Dietary changes: A special diet formulated for dogs with kidney disease is often recommended. This diet is typically lower in protein, phosphorus, and sodium and helps reduce the workload on the kidneys.
Fluid therapy: This can be administered intravenously (through an IV) or subcutaneously (under the skin) to help rehydrate the dog and remove toxins from the bloodstream.
Medications: Various medications may be used to address specific issues like:
- Anti-nausea medication to control vomiting
- Phosphate binders to help regulate phosphorus levels in the blood
- Erythropoietin (EPO) to stimulate red blood cell production
- Antihypertensives to manage high blood pressure
Other therapies: In some cases, more advanced therapies like dialysis or kidney transplant might be considered, but these are typically only available at specialized veterinary centers.

Prognosis for Renal Failure in Dogs:

The prognosis for dogs with renal failure varies significantly and depends on several factors, including:

Type of kidney failure: Generally, the prognosis for acute kidney failure is better than chronic kidney disease if the underlying cause can be identified and addressed promptly.
Stage of the disease: Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the prognosis.
Dog’s overall health and age: Underlying health conditions and age can influence the response to treatment and overall lifespan.

Also Read: Last Days of Dog with Kidney Failure: What to Expect

Conclusion

No pet owner wants to think about their dog suffering from kidney failure, but it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. If you notice any of the following ten signs in your dog, it’s time to take them to the vet for a check-up.

FAQs On Kidney Failure In Dogs Symptoms

1. How long can a dog live with kidney failure?

Stage 1: Median survival time: Over 400 days
Stage 2: Median survival time: 200 to 400 days
Stage 3: Median survival time: 110 to 200 days
Stage 4: Median survival time: 14 to 80 days

2. Can a dog recover from kidney failure?

Yes, in some cases, dogs can fully recover from acute kidney failure. This is especially true if the underlying cause is identified and addressed promptly. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for a full recovery.
Even with successful treatment, some dogs may experience long-term effects on their kidney function, requiring ongoing management to maintain their health.

3. Is a dog in pain when it has kidney failure?

It’s difficult to definitively say whether a dog with kidney failure is in pain, as pain can be subjective and challenging to assess in animals.

4. What are the final stages of kidney failure in dogs?

The final stages of kidney failure in dogs, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), signify a point of no return where the kidneys are no longer functioning adequately to sustain life. These stages are characterized by a deterioration of the dog’s overall health and a decline in quality of life.