Kidney failure is described as "chronic" or "acute". Chronic failure means that the kidneys can no longer perform their crucial functions of excreting waste products, regulating the chemical composition of body fluids, and producing hormones. Kidney function decreases slowly, which means the physical signs of failure may appear gradually.
Acute is characterized by an abrupt or sudden decline in kidney function that leads to changes in body chemistry, including alterations in fluid and mineral balances. These changes negatively affect almost every system in the body. The physical signs are more dramatic because kidney function declines quickly.
Most commonly, pets develop this kind of disease as they age because their kidneys "wear out". In this situation, it is not possible to prevent the failure, although it is possible to treat it. Outdoor dogs and cats are at greater risk because they are exposed to antifreeze more frequently. Indigestion of even a small amount of antifreeze can lead to acute failure and death.
Dog and cat breeds that are more likely to have hereditary kidney disease should not be used for breeding if they show signs of kidney disease. These breeds should be monitored for changes in their kidneys at an early age.
Tests are necessary to diagnose chronic and acute failure and rule out other diseases. Blood and urine samples are used to test various kidney functions and make sure that infection is not the cause of the physical signs of disease.
Your veterinarian can differentiate between chronic and acute failure based on your pet's history, physical examinations, and laboratory testing. A kidney biopsy may be necessary in some cases. Chronic kidney failure is not reversible, but your veterinarian can manage the physical signs of the disease. Pets may not respond to treatment at all or may live another few months or even years.
No comments:
Post a Comment