Kidney Disease in Pets
Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions affecting older cats and dogs. At Central Animal Hospital, early detection and a personalized management plan can help protect your pet’s quality of life.
Understanding Kidney Disease
The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the body, and as pets age, kidney function can gradually decline. Kidney disease can be acute, coming on suddenly due to toxins or illness, or chronic, developing slowly over time. Signs may include increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and lethargy.
Diagnosing and Managing Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is typically diagnosed through bloodwork and urine testing, often as part of a routine wellness exam for senior pets. Our internal medicine team may also use ultrasound to evaluate kidney structure more closely. Once diagnosed, management often includes a specialized kidney-friendly diet through nutritional counseling, medication, and regular monitoring to track kidney function over time.
For pets in more advanced stages, our hospice care team is available to help support comfort and quality of life.
Catching It Early
Because early-stage kidney disease often has few obvious symptoms, routine bloodwork during senior wellness visits is one of the best tools we have for catching it early, when management tends to be most effective. If you’ve noticed changes in your pet’s thirst, appetite, or energy, please contact us today at (561) 391-8787.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Kidney Disease
What are the signs of kidney disease in pets?
Signs include increased thirst and urination, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and lethargy.
How is kidney disease diagnosed?
Kidney disease is diagnosed through bloodwork and urine testing, sometimes supported by ultrasound imaging.
Can kidney disease be cured?
Chronic kidney disease usually can’t be cured, but it can often be managed with diet, medication, and monitoring to slow its progression.
Is kidney disease more common in older pets?
Yes. Chronic kidney disease is significantly more common in senior cats and dogs, though it can occur at any age.
Does diet make a difference for pets with kidney disease?
Yes. A specialized kidney-friendly diet is often a key part of managing the condition and slowing its progression.
How often should my pet be tested for kidney disease?
Senior pets generally benefit from routine bloodwork at wellness visits, since early kidney disease often has few obvious symptoms.
Protect Your Pet’s Kidney Health
Schedule a kidney health screening at Central Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, FL.