It is a treatment for renal failure, not a cure. Renal transplantation can place a tremendous financial, emotional and physical burden on the owners of a patient. The animal must meet several health criteria, have a dedicated referring veterinarian and the family must agree to adopt the kidney donor ca t and provide a life-long home. Kidney transplantation requires a commitment that cannot be underestimated, says Dr. Gregory. In addition to investigative work on promising immunosuppressant drugs for both cats and dogs, Dr. Gregory and his colleagues are also working to improve the surgical technique of replacing an entire kidney and to eliminate some postoperative problems that can be associated with kidney transplantation.
Early detection improves the chances for effective medical and surgical therapy.
Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, we must reject some patients who have lost too much weight, are too sick or have developed additional problems that make them unsuitable candidates for transplant.