Spotting the Signs of Kidney Disease in Pets
Kidney disease is extremely common in both dogs and cats. In fact, as many as 1 in 3 cats and 1 in 10 dogs will develop this condition within their lifetime. As a pet parent, it’s your responsibility to notice any changes with your pet. Early treatment can stop or slow the progress of kidney disease.
Symptoms of Kidney Disease
The symptoms of kidney disease are a result of your pet’s body trying to compensate for the kidney’s decreasing ability to properly flush toxins from the system.
Signs of kidney disease include:
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Dry gums
- Unkempt appearance
- Over grooming the recto genital area
- Saliva stains around genitals
- Urine scalding
- Fur loss around the kidneys and bladder
- Constipation
- Sudden weight loss
- Vision problems
- Increased thirst
- Increased urine output
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Bad breath
- Depression
Many of these symptoms might be signs of another illness. It’s important to have your veterinarian examine your pet if you notice any changes to their health or behavior.
Types of Kidney Disease
Kidney disease might be chronic or acute. Chronic kidney disease can be hard to spot because symptoms develop slowly. Acute kidney disease happens suddenly and typically requires emergency treatment.
Kidney disease becomes more common as pets increase in age. Pets that have suffered from acute kidney disease are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease later on. Certain breeds of dogs might be more susceptible to this condition.
Early treatment of kidney disease gives your pet the best possible chance at a long and happy life. When caught early, progress of the disease can be stopped or slowed.
Catching the Signs of Kidney Disease
Your groomer will examine your pet at every visit. Regular grooming is important as it can help you catch changes to your pet that you might have missed.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers full service pet grooming in Orange County, California. Our experienced groomers are well trained to spot the signs and symptoms of a number of diseases. However, grooming should never replace regular check-ups with a qualified veterinarian.
Please call 714-962-1005 to schedule your next grooming appointment.