Canine and Feline renal failure | Renal failure symptoms in dogs and cats

Clinical signs of acute renal failure symptoms (ARF) are often nonspecific and include lethargy, depression, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration; occasionally uremic breath or oral ulcers may be present. A diagnosis of renal failure is confirmed if azotemia with concurrent isosthenuria or minimally concentrated urine persists. Prerenal dehydration and azotemia superimposed on an inability to concentrate urine ) e.g., Addison's disease, hypercalcemia, or overzealous use of furosemide) initially mimics renal failure; however, in these cases, volume replacement results in resolution of the azotemia.

Acute renal failure occurs within hours or days of exposure to the insult. Unique clinical signs and clinicopathologic findings associated with ARF include enlarged or swollen kidneys, hemoconcentration, good body condition, an active urine dediment (e.g., granular casts, renal epithelial cells), and relatively severe hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis (especially in the face of oliguria). Clinical signs in an animal with ARF tend to be severe relative to those seen in animal with Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) and the same magnitude of azotemia. Renal ultrasonographic findings in dogs and cats with acute renal failure are usually nonspecific, with normal to slightly hyperechoic renal cortices. In animals with calcium oxalate nephrosis associated with ethylene glycol ingestion, the renal cortices can be very hyperechoic. The prevention of trauma (car accident for instance), that may lead to shock and the development of renal ischemia or exposure to nephrotoxicants outside the hospital relies on owner education and environmental control, an important aspect of the prevention.

Canine and Feline renal failure diagnostic plan:

History
Physical examination
Abdominal palpation
Urinalysis
Blood work
Abdominal x-rays
Kidney biopsy

Canine and Feline renal failure treatment:

Fluid therapy
Diuretics
Phosphate binders
Sodium bicarbonate
Drugs to control stomach acidity
Peritoneal dialysis

Canine and Feline renal failure diatery plan:

A diet with controlled and appropriate levels of protein, phosphorus, sodium and calories. We recommend this natural balanced real-meat dog food and natural dietary supplement for recovery.

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