Pets Can Get Kidney Disease Too. Learn How to Protect Them

Did you know cats and dogs can develop kidney disease just like people? Since May is National Pet Month, it's a great time to explore how kidney disease affects humans and pets—and how you can protect their health and yours.

After all, the better you feel, the better you can care for your furry friends.

What Is Kidney Disease?

Kidneys are important organs that:

• Filter waste

• Balance electrolytes

• Regulate fluid levels

Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys no longer function properly. In humans, this is most often caused by diabetes or high blood pressure. The cause of kidney disease in animals varies from pet to pet. As the kidneys fail, toxins and fluid can build up in the body, leading to serious health issues. If kidney function drops too low, dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed to survive. While these treatments are also available for pets, they can be extremely expensive.

How Is Kidney Disease Diagnosed?

Both human doctors and veterinarians use blood and urine tests to assess kidney function:

• eGFR: A blood test that measures creatinine, a waste product that healthy kidneys remove

• uACR: A urine test that checks for a protein called albumin, which shouldn't be there

Since kidney disease often has no symptoms in its early stages, regular checkups are the best way to monitor kidney function.

Learn more about kidney disease testing. 

Kidney Disease in Cats

According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, kidney disease is common in older cats. Around 40% of all cats over the age of 10 and 80% of cats over the age of 15 have kidney disease.

Symptoms of kidney disease in cats include:

• Drinking more water

• Urinating more often

• Poor appetite

• Weight loss

• Looking messy or disheveled

Cats with kidney issues may also develop:

• High blood pressure: Symptoms include vision and heart health issues

• Anemia or low iron: Symptoms include pale gums and low energy

There is no cure for kidney disease in pets, but treatments are available:

• Diet Changes: A kidney-friendly diet low in protein, phosphorus, and salt may improve quality of life.

• Hydration: Preventing dehydration helps cats’ kidneys function longer. Owners may need to give fluids under the skin if they refuse to drink.

• Medication: Blood pressure medications and phosphate binders may slow disease progression.

Knowledge is power. Since cats are known to develop kidney disease, work with your veterinarian to prevent issues before they start. And be sure to monitor your cat’s kidney health, especially as they age. 

Kidney Disease in Dogs

Dogs can also develop kidney disease, though it is less common than in cats.

The American Kennel Club reports that kidney disease in dogs is most often caused by:

• Infection

• Physical trauma

• Genetics

• Medications

• Cancer

• Obstructions like kidney stones

Dogs are also susceptible to acute kidney injury, or the sudden loss of kidney function from eating toxins like lilies, grapes, raisins, and antifreeze.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs:

• Increased thirst

• Peeing more

• Loss of appetite and weight loss

• Vomiting and diarrhea

• Lethargy and weakness

• Bad breath with a chemical smell

Dog Breed Matters

According to PetMD, some dog breeds have a higher risk of developing kidney disease due to their genetics.

These include:

• Basenji

• Bernese Mountain Dog

• Boxer

• Bull Terrier

• Cairn Terrier

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• Cocker Spaniel

• English Cocker Spaniel

• Shar-Pei

• West Highland White Terrier

Treatment Options Include:

• Dietary Adjustments: Special kidney-friendly diets may help the kidneys work longer.

• Fluid Therapy: Helping dogs stay hydrated may help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

• Medications: Appetite stimulants are available for dogs who have lost their appetite.

Regular vet checkups and dog-proofing your home can help protect your dog's kidney health in the long run.

Staying Healthy

Don’t forget about your own kidney health! Take these steps to ensure you can stay active and enjoy life with your furry friends.

Ways to Protect Your Kidney Health:

• Get routine kidney screenings: Early detection may allow people to make lifestyle changes that help them maintain their kidney function longer.

• Eat a balanced diet: Choose more low-sodium options and limit processed foods, which are usually high in salt or sugar.

• Manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels: Uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes can permanently damage the kidneys.