Towcester Vets shares signs of kidney and heart diseases in dogs and cats
October 21, 2022
Heart disease and kidney disease are two of the most common diseases cats and dogs can develop. Veterinary surgeons at Towcester Vets are here to help pet owners understand more about these ailments and the signs to look out for.
Read their explanations abut these illnesses below.
About kidney disease in cats and dogs
Kidney disease can be acute or chronic and caused by many different things. The kidneys are very important organs and are responsible for:
- Removing toxins from circulation
- Getting rid of waste product from the body
- Keeping your pet’s blood pressure regular
- Stopping your pet from dehydrating
Acute kidney disease means the kidneys have stopped working suddenly. Chronic kidney disease means they have been deteriorating over a period of time.
Treatment for kidney disease in cats and dogs will depend on the severity of symptoms but may include IV fluids or hospitalisation for more intense treatments.
About heart disease in cats and dogs
There are many different types of heart disease a dog or cat can have. Some of these are:
- Mitral valve disease
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Arrhythmias
- Congenital heart disease
- Pericardial disease
Each one affects the heart differently, but they all have very similar symptoms and can affect any dog or cat at any age. Heart valve problems are most common and typically affect small breed dogs aged five or older. Some breeds may be more likely to develop certain heart conditions such as Dobermans are more likely to have dilated cardiomyopathy.
Treatment for heart disease in dogs and cats will depend on the type, severity of symptoms, and your pet’s general health.
Common signs of heart & kidney diseases
According to our experienced vets, pet owners can help their pets by learning how to monitor any changes in their health at home. There are a few common signs of heart disease and kidney disease that you can look out for. The earlier the symptoms are picked up, the sooner your pet can undergo investigations and get the vital treatment they need.
The common signs are:
7 signs your pet may have kidney disease:
- Drinking more water
- Urinating more than usual (may look like water rather than urine a lot of the time)
- Feeling tired
- Quiet and lethargic
- Vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Off food
7 signs your pet may have heart disease:
- Coughing
- Breathlessness
- Exercise intolerance
- Lethargy
- Collapse/fainting
- Weight loss
- Abdominal swelling
Many of these signs can be linked with other conditions but if you have any concerns, it is always best to get your pet looked at by a vet. The veterinary surgeons at our Towcester vet practice advise that you should not overlook any symptoms whatever age your pet is as some diseases can affect them at a young age. Another sign of heart disease is a heart murmur, which a vet can listen out for during a health check.
Causes of Heart & Kidney disease
There are a few factors that can cause heart disease and kidney disease in cats and dogs. These include:
Kidney disease:
- Poisoning
- Underlying health problems such as heart disease
- Long term urinary issues
- Genetics
- Long term dehydration
- Age related changes
Heart disease:
- Genetics
- Age related changes
- Obesity and nutrition can play a role too
Regardless of which heart condition your dog or cat has, it is important to spot the signs early – the same goes for kidney disease.
