Nephropathy

Causes of nephropathy

There are several causes of nephropathy in dogs, such as:

• Infections: Bacteria, viruses or fungi can infect the kidneys and cause inflammation.
• Poisoning: Certain substances, such as antifreeze, heavy metals or medications, can damage the kidneys if ingested in excessive amounts.
• Hereditary factors : Some dog breeds have a genetic predisposition to nephropathy, such as the Samoyed, the Shih Tzu or the Basenji.
• Age : With increasing age, the kidneys can lose function and become more susceptible to disease.
• Autoimmune diseases: The dog's immune system can attack and destroy its own kidney cells.
• Cancer: Tumors can infiltrate the kidneys or impair blood flow to the kidneys.

Symptoms of nephropathy

The symptoms of nephropathy in dogs can vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. The most common symptoms include:

• Increased thirst and urination: Since the kidneys can no longer retain water properly, the dog has to drink and urinate more to compensate for fluid loss.
• Weight loss and loss of appetite : The dog may lose weight and eat less because it feels unwell or because the waste products in the blood affect its sense of taste.
• Vomiting and diarrhea: The waste products in the blood can cause nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Lethargy and weakness : The dog may become tired and listless because it is suffering from anemia or because its organs are no longer supplied with sufficient oxygen.
• Bad breath and bleeding gums: The waste products in the blood can lead to inflammation of the gums and an unpleasant odor from the mouth.
• Skin problems and hair loss: The waste products in the blood can lead to skin irritation, itching, dandruff and hair loss.
• Edema and high blood pressure: The accumulation of fluid in the tissues can lead to swelling, especially in the legs. Blood pressure can also rise because the kidneys can no longer excrete the salt properly.

Diagnosis of nephropathy

To diagnose nephropathy in your dog, your vet will perform a thorough physical examination and ask you some questions about your dog's symptoms, history and lifestyle. They will also order some tests, such as

• Blood tests: to measure the levels of waste products, such as creatinine and urea, and electrolytes, such as potassium and phosphate, in the blood. These values can provide information about the function of the kidneys.
• Urinalysis: To determine the levels of protein, sugar, bacteria or blood in the urine. These values can indicate an infection, inflammation or damage to the kidneys.
• Ultrasound: To assess the size, shape and structure of the kidneys. This can help to identify possible causes of nephropathy, such as tumors, cysts or stones.
• Kidney biopsy: To take a tissue sample from the kidney and examine it under a microscope. This can help to determine the type and extent of kidney damage.

Treatment of nephropathy

The treatment of nephropathy in dogs depends on the cause, stage and general condition of the dog. The aim of treatment is to alleviate the symptoms, maintain or improve kidney function and prevent possible complications. Possible treatment options include

• Fluid therapy: to stabilize the dog's fluid and electrolyte balance and promote the elimination of waste products. This can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously.
• Nutritional therapy: To provide the dog with a special diet that is low in protein, phosphate and salt. This can help to reduce the burden on the kidneys and lower blood pressure.
• Medication: To treat symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, pain, high blood pressure or anemia. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories or immunosuppressants may also be administered to treat the underlying cause of the nephropathy.
• Dialysis: To artificially replace the function of the kidneys by passing the blood through a machine that cleanses it of waste products. This is a very expensive and complex treatment that is only available in specialized centers.
• Kidney transplant: To replace the diseased kidney with a healthy donor kidney. This is a very rare and risky treatment that is only carried out in a few countries.

Prognosis of nephropathy

The prognosis of nephropathy in dogs depends on many factors, such as the cause, stage, treatment and the dog's response to therapy. Unfortunately, nephropathy is a chronic and progressive disease that cannot be cured. The life expectancy of a dog with nephropathy can vary from a few months to a few years. It is important to have your dog examined regularly by a vet and to monitor his symptoms. You should also give your dog lots of love and care to improve their quality of life.