Kidney failure, also known as chronic renal failure or CRF, is a fairly common disease among pets. Over a period of time, the kidneys may fail and lose their ability to concentrate urine and produce the amount of water needed to excrete toxins. As such, toxin levels in the body rise. Animals will typically drink more and more water in an attempt to provide the kidneys with enough water. Other symptoms can include constipation, listlessness, nausea, poor appetite, and weight loss.
Treatment depends on the severity of the case, and more serious cases of kidney failure often require hospitalization. Intravenous fluids are administered. Dialysis and kidney transplantation are other options. Changes in diet are typically required to restrict protein and phosphorus. |
