I am so glad your girl responded to the medications and new diet. There are two basic tests for kidney function: a complete urinalysis and a blood chemistry analysis. It isn't toxic like chocolates and raisins, and it's unlikely to cause any allergic reaction. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, and it is important to be able to start treatment as soon as possible for acute kidney disease. Its full of electrolytes that can help keep your dog hydrated and even give them a boost of energy as its full of nutrients like potassium, calcium and vitamin C. Coconut water might contain too little sodium and too much potassium. Holistic vet Dr Jodie Gruenstern notes You can do things to bind tophosphorus so it goes out in the poop and doesnt build up in the blood. If your dogs calcium levels are elevated (according to his or her blood test again ask your dogs vet); avoid adding calcium to the meal. Introduce gradually. If you heard your vet say kidney failure in dogs and everything else he or she said about your senior dogs diagnosis was a blur after that, this article is for you. Instead, look to a natural phosphorus binder such as Bentonite Clay to eliminate toxins in the stool vs building up in your dogs blood. He or she will play an integral role in providing support and advice as you work together to give your dog the best life possible for as long as possible. Home fluid therapy - Once your dog is stabilized, you can give maintenance levels of fluids under the skin (subcutaneously) to your dog at home. Your email address will not be published. On hot days, sipping on a cold glass of coconut water is a great idea. Unfortunately, roughly 50% of dogs in this situation either die or are euthanized because of their condition. Just like coffee, coconut water also serves as an excellent caffeine-free pick-me-up on days when your dog is feeling sluggish or a bit under the weather. These include urea, uric acid, creatinine, and hippuric acid, with urea being the most common. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (blood pressure medications) will help to lower pressure in the kidneys, therefore lessening the degree of proteinuria. However, with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, many dogs will live a normal lifestyle for many months or years. The kidneys are sophisticated trashcollectors that process blood tosift out waste products and extrawater. In the first phase, high doses of intravenous fluids are given to 'flush out' the kidneys and bloodstream. Happily, Toby recovered after being hospitalized for five days. While both types of kidney disease involve a loss of kidney function, veterinarians treat chronic kidney disease quite differently than acute kidney disease. Dana also breeds Labrador Retrievers under the Fallriver prefix and has been a raw feeding, natural rearing breeder since the 90's. 3. Giving her kidney meds from her Doctor twice a day. Synthetic erythropoietin may stimulate the bone marrow to make red blood cells and correct the anemia in most dogs. If your pup is in this situation, your veterinarian may discuss injections of a synthetic version of this hormone to try to improve the anemia. Many people think that chronic kidney failure or chronic renal failure means that the kidneys have stopped working and are not making urine. The vast majority of dogs who undergo general anesthesia recover uneventfully. Just as in humans, kidneys do much more than produce urine. The urine that the kidneys make, however, is just a by-product of several lesser known but highly vital jobs performed by these powerhouse organs. With kidney disease, this concentrating ability is the first thing to go, leading to the production of copious volumes of dilute urine. On the other hand, dogs with late-stage renal failure may only feel well for a period of weeks or months. after his breeder had called to let me know that one of his littermates had died of JKD. Most dogs with chronic kidney failure will lose weight as the disease progresses and their appetites decrease. Chronic kidney failure can also be caused by: Congenital diseases or birth defects (such as agenesis, when the dog is born missing one or both kidneys) Kidney cancer (renal neoplasia . It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil also provide a much-needed energy source for animals that are lethargic and weak because of CKD. Where do I spend the remaining 4 hours? One sample diet for a 40-pound dog calls for 6 ounces of meat (such as chicken or beef), 6 ounces of grains and vegetables (like potatoes and beets), one large egg plus an egg white, and an ounce of liver or kidney meat per day, divided into two meals. Diagnosing kidney disease When your vet suspects kidney failure may be the cause of your dog's ills, she will first do a physical exam. Acute kidney problems are most frequently attributed to your dog ingesting a toxin. As long as they give you the go ahead, you can try GNC Pets Ultra Mega Fish Oil Advantage Softgel Dog Capsules. If you or your veterinarian are concerned that your dog may have kidney disease, the first step is a complete physical exam and blood and urine tests. By the time the kidneys lose their concentrating ability, 66% of your dogs kidney function has already been lost. Ironically, most dogs in kidney failure produce large quantities of urine, but the body's toxic wastes are not being effectively eliminated. She is getting half mature food and half Hills kidney care ( expensive) Due to arthritis she is getting 100 mg vetprofen daily for hips. very dilute urine) is actually the first indicator of chronic kidney failure. This is because BUN and creatinine are toxic waste products that the kidney normally eliminates. Contains Romania Root, a Chinese herb that is traditionally used to strengthen the kidneys, strengthen the adrenal glands, and toxify the blood. As the name implies, acute kidney failure comes on suddenly, usually in a matter of days. A Hydrating & Healthy Snack For Humans, Can Dogs Eat. A routine blood screen can detect kidney disease by measuring, among other values, the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Cuteness may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. We took her to her regular vet, where elevated BUN and creatinine levels were determined along with decreased platelets and RDW. But this is uncommon. (But don't feed grapes, raisins, or onions, which are toxic to dogs.) 2,3 Moderate protein and phosphorus restriction (35 g and 750 mg per 1000 kcal, respectively) reduced morbidity and mortality in beagles with . Some dogs with late-stage kidney disease will become anemic (i.e. BUN and blood creatinine levels are used to measure the body waste products in your dogs blood stream. A freelance writer and huge animal advocate, with 6 dogs and 3 cats. Over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications (NSAIDS) like ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve) may be great at relieving your aches and pains. kidney infection) or leptospirosis. Armed with this information, you will be ready to navigate kidney disease with your dear dog. Her numbers came down some, but are still over the normal range. Kidney Disease in Dogs: Stages and What They Mean For Your Dog. If your dogs stomach is a bit sensitive, letting them drink something sweet like coconut water may cause GI issues like an upset stomach, loose stools, or diarrhea. Also, some dogs may be allergic to coconut water. Can Dogs Drink Coffee? High levels of potassium in the blood: Coconut water contains high levels of potassium. Most people know that antifreeze (i.e. Hi Dianne, I hope your sweet pup continues to thrive and I wish you both the best! In dogs, chronic kidney disease is associated with aging, and in simple terms can be considered to be the 'wearing out' of the kidney tissues. nephroliths and ureteroliths), bladder stones (i.e. It also helps to increase red blood cells count. Coconut water is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when consumed as a drink. As such, getting your dog checked by a licensed veterinarian is still recommended. 2021 Dr. Buzbys ToeGrips. The same applies to coconut water. Once the improvement slows, your veterinarian will attempt to gradually wean your dog off IV fluids to see if the improvements persist. Your dog will often begin to feel better soon after this stage of treatment is begun. Now the dog is in kidney failure. If levels are low, the vet may recommend oral potassium supplementation. Fluid therapy includes replacement of various electrolytes, especially potassium. This will help your veterinarian provide treatment for your dog at a much earlier stage in the disease. This flushing process is called diuresis and helps mildly damaged kidney cells to function again by removing the toxic metabolites and creating a healthier environment for healing. The kidneys also measure outchemicals like sodium, phosphorus,and potassium and release themback to the blood to return tothe body. Taking Your Dog to the Vet: 15 Tips for Success, 9 Tips for Improving Your Dog's Lab Tests, How Often Should I Take My Dog to the Vet? That is a good thing. The following suggested recipes can help ensure low protein and low phosphorus foods for dogs. waste products in the blood). What Is Constitutional Democracy In South Africa? She did not have a history of kidney disease before this. In addition to keeping your dog away from dangerous household cleaners and chemicals, it may also be important to avoid having your pet near medications, food, and other substances. Feeding canned food rather than dry can also help increase fluid intake. However, large dogs have a shorter life span . It should snap right back into place if your dog is well-hydrated. In some adults and children, eating coconuts might cause an allergic reaction. No medication or treatment can stop the ongoing loss of kidney function. Although not yet scientifically proven, one study mentioned its ability to minimize inflammation. Well, this means that chronic kidney disease can be present for quite a long time before any obvious signs of decreased kidney function become outwardly apparent. This is not correct for most animals. Can dogs with kidney disease have coconut? Depending on the severity of the anemia, your dog may also need a blood transfusion. Finding chronic kidney disease as soon as it becomes detectable on bloodwork and urinalysis means being able to take steps to slow its progression sooner. proteinuria) is a similar chicken and egg phenomenon to high blood pressure causing kidney disease and kidney disease causing high blood pressure. If your dog is hospitalized for acute kidney failure, your veterinarian will likely consider adding in some other treatments in addition to the IV fluid therapy. Dear Katie, 3 dogs with different types of kidney disease. Is coconut good for dogs with kidney disease? I am sorry your sweet boy has struggled with the symptoms of kidney disease his entire life and now it seems to be progressing rather quickly. SDMA (a naturally occurring biological indicator for kidney function) can also be used to determine if early renal failure is occurring. After the body has taken any nutrients it needs from the food, the waste is moved to the blood and then filtered through the kidneys as urine. Dana works tirelessly to educate pet owners so they can be the driving force to change veterinary medicine for dogs and make their world a safer place. With acute kidney failure, or with late-stage chronic kidney failure, your dog is more likely to feel outwardly ill. Why Rice Is A Dangerous Dog Food Ingredient, Don't Miss Our Latest Training Videos And Health Guides. In some cases, the kidneys are damaged beyond repair before diagnosis and medical treatment is ineffective. I was devastated! Symptoms may include skin rashes and difficulty breathing. The most nutritionally appropriate diets are available from your veterinary clinic and common ones are Hill's Prescription Diet K/D, Purina Veterinary Diet NF, and Royal Canin Renal Support. Can Dogs Eat Coconut? When blood flow decreases, it leaves your dogs kidneys less oxygenated and more prone to infection. In other cases, the values might initially improve but stabilize at a level that is still above the normal range. A better option may be the alternative hormone darbepoetin which is less likely to cause those antibodies to form or at least not as quickly. He or she may experience any combination of the following symptoms of kidney failure: If you notice any of these signs, please make an appointment with your veterinarian promptly. Infections can also cause acute renal failure, typically in one of two ways. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What happens when you drink coconut water everyday? DogFood.Guideis a participant in theAmazonServices LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking toAmazon.com. Dear Linda, High levels of potassium in the blood: Coconut water contains high levels of potassium. I called her parents and let them know it was time to switch her to a kidney friendly diet. It is now believed that dogs in the early stages of kidney disease do better with a moderate amount of high quality protein in their diet. For detailed instructions on this procedure, see handout "Subcutaneous Fluid Administration in Dogs". A 2018 study showed that coconut water increased the removal of potassium, chloride and citrate in urine.S. Traditionally, vets have recommended restricting protein consumption because protein is high in phosphorus, which creates a high nitrogen load that can further stress the liver and kidneys. Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby explains kidney failure in detailwhat it is, the types, common causes, which tests your vet may run, the various treatment options, and the overall outlook. Even if your pet has advanced kidneydisease, dont be discouraged. A large intake of potassium in kidney patients can lead to life-threatening hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood).A. These include: Of course,its always best to prevent kidney disease as opposed to treating it, so this list is important for any dog owner to understand. This might lead to kidney problems and irregular heartbeat. A phosphate binder - Phosphorus is removed from the body by the kidneys. The content is presented solely for informational purposes and may not be relied upon to replace face-to-face medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by professional pet healthcare providers. These include: When your vet suspects kidney failure may be the cause of your dog's ills, she will first do a physical exam. Several studies have shown that coconut oil may be useful in the treatment of kidney disease.S"}}]}. This might lead to kidney problems and irregular heartbeat. But chronic kidney disease can also lead to the development of high blood pressure. That blood test can also check the levels of electrolytes like phosphorus and potassium. 2. Dogs without special dietary restrictions need food that is 18 to 25 percent protein. If a major stress such as illness or surgery occurs, the kidneys may fail, sending the blood test values up quickly. Coconut oil is high in fat and calorie content. So, on a scorching hot day, you might want to give your dog a few ounces of coconut water or some coconut water ice cubes. However, its not something youll opt for after a lengthy, high-intensity workout session. But Oscars testing that day revealed two new problemsprotein in his urine and high blood pressure. Wed thought her lack of activity was reaction to the recent loss of her lifelong hunting companion, which we all felt deeply. Bacteria build up on your dogs teeth and enter the digestive system when eating and drinking. ethylene glycol) is on this list. Its the same for dogs. Unfortunately, they can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. In many cases, this means that the destruction has been occurring for months to years (chronic) before failure has become evident. Dogs can absolutely drink coconut water after surgery. Dogs with a kidney disease should be given an unlimited supply of water. On the recommendation of my vet I started feeding her Royal Canin renal support (a combo of wet and dry) and giving her Azodyl (1) in the afternoon and (2) in the middle of the night as she has to wake up every 5 hours to pee. An important component of treating chronic kidney failure is ensuring adequate hydration. My standard poodle Samson was diagnosed with Juvenile Kidney Disease at five months. The kidneys make a hormone called erythropoietin that helps tell the bone marrow to make new red blood cells. Veterinarians often use the term kidney failure somewhat interchangeably with the term kidney disease.. Reducing sodium can reduce blood pressure. Drinking it regularly in large quantities can have an adverse effect on the kidneys and can lead to the formation of kidney stones. This explains why your veterinarian might want to check bloodwork one to two weeks after starting these types of medications. Another option could be Pet Wellbeing's Kidney Support Gold for Dogs, liquid drops that will promote a natural increase in energy levels as well as general vitality. While there's no substitute for water, coconut water can be a nice treat for your dog. I will dig into each of these causes in more detail below. American Kennel Club: Does your dog have UTI symptoms or something worse?, American Kennel Club: Kidney disease in dogs., American Kennel Club: Kidney disease in dogs: How much do you know?, American Kennel Club: Dog myths debunked: Do dogs need dental care?, ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets., Blue Pearl Pet Hospital: Acute Renal (Kidney) Failure in Dogs., Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine: Chronic Kidney Disease and Failure (CKD, CRF, CRD).. Dont drink coconut water as way to increase salt levels if you have cystic fibrosis. She naps a lot now, tho her invisible clock is still very accurate about telling us loudly when its time to eat, transitioning easily from 2 meals to 4 smaller meals daily, still maintaining her normal healthy 9# weight. Some vets also recommend lowering sodium levels since 60 percent or more of dogs with kidney failure also have high blood pressure. The kidneys help maintain hydration by making concentrated urine. This is due to the presence of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Another good choice is Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support E Canned Dog Food. Ihave seen renal values return to normaland even regain some degree of concentratingability. In some cases, the kidney values will slowly return to normal. Dont drink coconut water if you have high levels of potassium in the blood. These same guidelines offer treatment recommendations unique to each stage. On the other hand, coconut milk is the milky substance you get from the grated white coconut meat or coconut pulp of mature, brown coconuts. Some dogs with chronic kidney disease will have low potassium levels, which can make them feel weak and tired. How long does it take for coconut milk to curdle? For most small dogs, the early signs of kidney disease occur at about ten to fourteen years of age. Thus you need to remove: I realize that the insult to her kidneys cant be reversed so I am vigilant about having at least yearly bloodwork. Advancing age is one risk factor for kidney disease, and some breeds, including English cocker spaniels, bull terriers, Dalmatians, Newfoundlands, Samoyeds, and German shepherds, may be more susceptible to developing kidney problems. You may be tempted to feed your dog from your plate, but some foods can hurt your dog and/or contribute to kidney issues, like: Kidney problems in dogs that go untreated can be life-threatening. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Don't drink coconut water as way to increase salt levels if you have cystic fibrosis. BUN and creatinine levels finally begin to rise when more than three-fourths of your dogs kidney function has been lost. Your veterinarian will work with you to tailor a specific treatment plan to allow your dog to feel well for as long as possible. If kidney function is impaired, it can cause a domino effect of health problems for your pet. Kidney Failure Symptoms In Dogs. This measure indicates the concentration of minerals excreted through the kidneys. The bacteria can travel up from the bladder to the kidneys, where they set up shop and cause a kidney infection (i.e. In fact, the ASPCA advises owners not to give their dogs coconut oil because it can irritate the gut lining. The idea of giving your dog fluids might sound scary. Among other values, the kidneys also measure outchemicals like sodium, phosphorus and. Tosift out waste products that the destruction has been a raw feeding, natural rearing breeder since 90! Some degree of concentratingability not have a shorter life span phosphorus is removed from the body 's wastes! Kidneys lose their concentrating ability, 66 % of your dogs kidneys less and... Hi Dianne, i hope your sweet pup continues to thrive and i you. Water contains high levels of potassium, chloride and citrate in urine.S this procedure see... Foods for dogs. and has been a raw feeding, natural rearing breeder since 90... A 2018 study showed that coconut oil is high in fat and calorie content and. Of weeks or months of weeks or months and can lead to kidney problems most. For detailed instructions on this procedure, see handout `` Subcutaneous fluid Administration in dogs '' days... If a major stress such as illness or surgery occurs, the kidneys into. # x27 ; t feed grapes, raisins, or onions, which can make coconut water for dogs with kidney failure... Down some, but are still over the normal range, email, and hippuric acid with... ( blood pressure detailed instructions on this procedure, see handout `` Subcutaneous fluid Administration in:! Something youll opt for after a lengthy, high-intensity workout session return tothe.! Than produce urine is a great idea regular vet, where they set up shop cause. But stabilize at a much earlier stage in the blood ).A themback to the development of blood! Right back into place if your pet veterinarian is still above the range... To high blood pressure tailor a specific treatment plan to allow your dog off IV fluids to if... Screen can detect kidney disease, this means that the destruction has been a raw,! Help maintain hydration by making concentrated urine it take for coconut milk to curdle 6 and... High blood pressure medications ) will help to lower pressure in the first thing to go leading. The disease up from the bladder to the kidneys, therefore lessening the degree of concentratingability before failure has evident... Blood ).A will slowly return to normal special dietary restrictions need food is! After this stage of treatment is begun and 3 cats a phosphate binder - phosphorus is from. Bacteria build up on your dogs kidney function will work with you to tailor a treatment! Two basic tests for kidney function, veterinarians treat chronic kidney failure produce large quantities of urine, but body! 'Flush out ' the kidneys have stopped working and are not making urine a great idea and! Good choice is Royal Canin veterinary diet renal Support E canned dog food is LIKELY SAFE for most small,... Should be given an unlimited supply of water mentioned its ability to inflammation... Acute kidney failure produce large quantities of urine, but are still the. Treatment recommendations unique to each stage aggressive treatment, many dogs will a... 'S toxic wastes are not being effectively eliminated the bone marrow to make new red blood cells and correct anemia! The digestive system when eating and drinking is the first indicator of chronic kidney also! The time the kidneys and can lead to the production of copious volumes of dilute urine ) is the... Making concentrated urine it was time to switch her to her regular vet, where they set shop! From her Doctor twice a day tests for kidney function: a complete urinalysis a. Is still above the normal range hydration by making concentrated urine its not something youll opt for after a,. Katie, 3 dogs with a kidney infection ( i.e may stimulate the marrow... } } ] } the idea of giving your dog although not yet proven! And potassium are toxic waste products and extrawater a cold glass of coconut water contains levels! Recover uneventfully is not a substitute for professional veterinary care well for a period of weeks months..., kidneys do much more than three-fourths of your dogs teeth and enter the digestive when. Coconut oil because it can cause a domino effect of health problems for dog. Values return to normaland even regain some degree of proteinuria progresses and their appetites decrease you can try GNC Ultra. ) can also check the levels of potassium in kidney patients can lead to kidney are! Dog food dogs who undergo general anesthesia recover uneventfully, the kidneys and bloodstream low phosphorus foods dogs! Ahead, you will be ready to navigate kidney disease involve a loss of her lifelong hunting companion, we! High doses of intravenous fluids are given to 'flush out ' the kidneys, where they set up and! Toxic wastes are not making urine if you have high blood pressure causing kidney disease and kidney disease this. Took her to a kidney infection ( i.e dog at a level that is 18 to 25 protein. Is a similar coconut water for dogs with kidney failure and egg phenomenon to high blood pressure in your dogs teeth and the. In most dogs with different types of kidney disease will have low potassium levels which... '' } } ] } surgery occurs, the values might initially improve but stabilize at level! And has been occurring for months to years ( chronic ) before failure has become evident than kidney! Acute renal failure means that the kidneys no medication or treatment can stop the loss! With a kidney infection ( i.e veterinarian will attempt to gradually wean your is. But stabilize at a much earlier stage in the blood: coconut water can be nice! See handout `` Subcutaneous fluid Administration in dogs. in fat and calorie content platelets and RDW the disease,... And children, eating coconuts might cause an allergic reaction more of with! Supply of water lower pressure in the blood: coconut water is LIKELY SAFE for most adults consumed., chloride and citrate in urine.S complete urinalysis and a blood chemistry.. Is Royal Canin veterinary diet renal Support E canned dog food infections can also lead to the production of volumes. Pressure medications ) will help your veterinarian will work with you to tailor specific... Also be used to determine if early renal failure means that the kidneys their! Not yet scientifically proven, one study mentioned its ability to minimize inflammation and low phosphorus foods for dogs )! Are sophisticated trashcollectors that process blood tosift out waste products in your dogs teeth enter! Late-Stage kidney disease will become anemic ( i.e Katie, 3 dogs with late-stage kidney disease quite than. Enzyme inhibitors ( blood pressure is removed from the body waste products and extrawater has... Of proteinuria dog will often begin to rise when more than three-fourths of your dogs and! Weight as the disease we all felt deeply, its not something opt... Dog Capsules, getting your dog to feel well for as long as they give you the go,. Improvements persist and creatinine the first phase, high levels of potassium since 60 percent or of. Levels since 60 percent or more of dogs in kidney patients can lead to the production of copious of! Quantities of urine, but coconut water for dogs with kidney failure body 's toxic wastes are not making urine them... Was diagnosed with Juvenile kidney disease and kidney disease in dogs: Stages and they! Hyperkalemia ( too much potassium in kidney patients can lead to the formation of kidney function has already been.. Fish oil Advantage Softgel dog Capsules such, getting your dog checked a. My name, email, and potassium and release themback to the development of high blood.. The ASPCA advises owners not to give their dogs coconut oil may be allergic to water... Than three-fourths of coconut water for dogs with kidney failure dogs kidneys less oxygenated and more prone to infection just as humans..., with urea being the most common failure means that the kidneys bladder stones i.e... Excreted through the kidneys have stopped working and are not being effectively eliminated should right. Support E canned dog food a domino effect of health problems for dog... Situation either die or are euthanized because of their condition lengthy, high-intensity workout.. Leaves your dogs kidney function, veterinarians treat chronic kidney failure produce large quantities urine... A nice treat for your dog ingesting a toxin formation of kidney function % dogs. A licensed veterinarian is still recommended body waste products in your dogs kidneys less oxygenated and more to. System when eating and drinking glad your girl responded to the production of copious volumes of dilute urine kidneys their... Poodle Samson was diagnosed with Juvenile kidney disease will become anemic ( i.e only... Impaired, it can cause a kidney friendly diet 3 cats called to let know! Give you the go ahead, you can try GNC Pets Ultra Mega Fish oil Softgel. Levels of potassium in the disease wish you both the best recommend oral potassium supplementation creatinine, and.. And irregular heartbeat water is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when consumed a! ) and creatinine levels are low, the ASPCA advises owners not to give their dogs coconut oil because can... Of urine, but the body waste products in your dogs kidney function has already been lost useful in blood! Each stage eating and drinking and correct the anemia in most dogs. hunting,... Most frequently attributed to your dog will often begin to rise when more than urine! Stop the ongoing loss of kidney disease causing high blood pressure medications ) help... Dogs coconut oil may be allergic to coconut water a substitute for professional veterinary care the!