Your Dog or Cat Has CKD, Now What?

Dogs and cats diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often suffer from more than just kidney problems. Other age-related conditions can strip these animals of their strength, energy, and quality of life.

CKD patients often experience a dramatic drop in appetite and as a result a reduction in caloric intake. Without sufficient calories, the body turns to its own muscle protein for energy which contributes to muscle wasting. Muscle wasting is one of the most common conditions associated with CKD as well as arthritis and cognitive decline. Combined they can severely limit a dog or cat’s ability to run, jump, and walk; this doesn’t have to be the case.

How do we combat this disease that affects a great deal more than the kidneys? A prescription diet that protects kidney function might be the solution. Diet’s such as Hill’s K/D + Mobility are formulated to increase vitality and alertness featuring enhanced appetite triggers to increase appetite. The diet also provides essential amino acids, L-carnitine, and omega-3 fatty acids to naturally build muscle daily. This approach works well for those dogs or cats that are resistant to taking supplements by including it in the kibble. Most patients on the diet see improvement in as little as 21 days for dogs and 28 days for cats. 

If you have any questions about CKD or Hill’s K/D + Mobility email Amy (amynsvet@gmail.com), our Quality of Life specialist, or call us at 480-368-1741.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease and is your pet at risk?

Value of SDMA

One of the most commonly diagnosed diseases in veterinary medicine is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in senior cats. CKD is progressive and results in kidney failure and death, Unfortunately, we often diagnose this disease in its late stages. Historically we have been able to do a combination of blood and urine tests, looking for an elevated BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and Creatinine to signify disease within the kidneys. While these tests are accurate, they only tell us there is kidney disease after 75% of kidney function is lost. With this system many cats may have significant kidney disease lurking, but appear to be normal on blood-work.

Fortunately a new test is available and it is changing how early we can find this disease. A new test called Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA) is a renal marker that detects CKD when only 25% of kidney function is lost. This is much earlier in the disease process, and therefore allows us to make recommendations for care earlier. Earlier diagnosis and earlier intervention may mean a better prognosis over time.