Healthy kidneys perform a wide range of essential functions. Dogs suffering from acute kidney failure, however, experience a rapid decline in kidney function which requires emergency vet care. Here, our Rock Hill vets explain the signs of acute kidney failure in dogs and what actions you should take.
What is acute kidney failure in dogs?
Acute kidney failure in dogs, also known as acute renal failure, is a sudden and severe decrease in kidney function. This condition can be caused by various factors, such as ingestion of toxins, infections, dehydration, or blockages in the urinary tract.
Causes of Acute Kidney Failure in Dogs
When the function of your dog's kidneys suddenly and rapidly fails (over hours or days), this is referred to as acute kidney failure. It is most often related to toxins or an infection in your dog's body.
Acute kidney failure in dogs can be caused by dehydration, bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated water, or the ingestion of the following toxic substances:
- Ibuprofen
- Antifreeze (often licked up off of garage floor or driveway)
- Human heart medications
- Grapes and raisins (hidden in other foods or alone)
- Overdose of canine medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aminoglycoside antibiotics
Signs of Acute Kidney Failure
Acute kidney failure in dogs will appear rapidly. Generally you will notice its symptoms within hours to days of ingesting a toxin. Some of the symptoms you should keep an eye out for include:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Increase or decrease in water consumption
- Increase or decrease in volume of urine
- Uncoordinated movement such as stumbling
- Breath that smells like chemicals
- Significant decrease in appetite
- Ulcers in the mouth
- Blood in urine
If your dog is showing signs of acute kidney failure, contact your veterinarian immediately. This condition can be deadly if not quickly treated.
Diagnosing Acute Kidney Disease in Dogs
Your veterinarians will conduct a series of tests on your pet's blood and urine to confirm whether your pup is suffering from kidney failure and to get a sense of the extent of their condition. They will do so using tools like blood tests, urinalysis, ultrasound and X-rays. In some cases a biopsy of the kidneys may be required.
The results of these tests will help your pet determine how to proceed.
Treatment for Acute Kidney Failure in Dogs
Acute renal failure is a life-threatening condition for dogs. To save your pet's life, he or she may need to be hospitalized and receive intensive care. The following treatments can be used to treat their condition while also monitoring their status:
- Kidney dialysis (Hemodialysis)
- IV fluids to hydrate and flush out the kidneys
- Peritoneal dialysis (Flushing toxins from your pet's system with fluids directly fed into their stomach)
- Administering antibiotics
- Medications treating stomach ulcers caused by kidney failure
Prognosis for Dogs with Acute Kidney Failure
This is a very, very serious condition. And, sadly, the survival rate for dogs suffering from acute kidney failure is not good. It's estimated that less thank half of pets suffering from acute kidney failure survive.
If caught early and treated aggressively, however, your dog may be able to recover and live for several more years.
Your vet will be able to provide you with a realistic life expectancy for your dog's acute kidney failure after a complete examination and testing. Your veterinarian will provide you with an estimate of treatment costs and help to guide you through the most appropriate approach to treatment for your pup.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.