Kidney disease is not limited to any particular age or breed, but is one of the most common medical problems of older dogs and cats and is a leading cause of death for these pets. The kidneys also regulate the volume and composition of your pet's body fluids. Signs and recognition of decreased kidney function are not evident until more than two thirds of the total kidney function has been lost. The majority of adult dogs and cats have some kidney damage present. Once kidney damage is present, regeneration of kidney tissue does not occur.
Kidney damage is usually progressive.
If kidney disease destroys the kidney's ability to perform properly, waste materials accumulate in the blood. Causes Kidney disease may have many different causes, including inherited defects, infections and toxic substances. Frequently, the cause cannot be determined, but with careful examination and testing, the severity of the disease can be evaluated and the best method of management prescribed. Diagnosis Your veterinarian will make a diagnosis of kidney disease based on your pet's health history, clinical signs, and clinical evaluation. Clinical evaluation includes blood tests and urinalyses to determine how well the kidney is functioning.