How do dogs get kidney disease?

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By Dr. John Koch

Question: I recently read in a dog magazine that kidney disease is the second leading cause of death in dogs. Apparently, cancer is No. 1. Could you give a little information about this disease and explain why this disease is to prevalent?

Answer: There are a lot of reasons why kidneys fail; however, aging is the primary reason. Over a lifetime, dogs are exposed to infectious agents, chemicals, toxins and dietary improprieties, all which produce wear and tear on kidneys.

Symptoms include increased water intake and urinary output. Constipation may be seen. As the condition gets worse, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness may be noticed. Your veterinarian could notice dehydration and oral ulcers.

There are a number of things you can do to help, and slow the progression of aging kidneys. Beginning at middle age (six or seven) have routine urine and blood tests performed to monitor their function. At the first sign of problems, start your pet on a prescription diet designed to improve water retention and to help with waste elimination. This helps conserve kidney function by lessening the workload they have. As the condition worsens, medications may be required.

To help prevent kidney disease make sure your pet has an annual physical exam and stays current on vaccinations. Leptospirosis is a disease that can significantly damage kidneys and is included in most vaccination programs. Leptospirosis has been reported to be on the increase in some parts of North America.

When your pet is a puppy, feed it a good quality diet from the beginning. Cheaper foods contain lower quality proteins, which produce more waste material forcing the kidney to have to work harder. Better foods help conserve kidneys from the start of your pet's life.

One of the most important and critical areas to watch are your pet's teeth. When needed, have them cleaned on a timely basis. Rotten teeth cause low-grade inflammation and infection of the kidneys and do more harm than people can possibly realize. Only a few years ago kidney disease was the No. 1 cause of death in dogs. It is now number two primarily because pet owners are paying closer attention to their pet's oral health. To help prevent kidney disease, keep those teeth clean.

Dr. Koch is a Cape Girardeau veterinarian.