Chronic kidney disease

21 May 2024

Chronic kidney disease is a common condition in dogs – and even more so in cats. It can have serious consequences for the health of our 4-legged companions. By understanding this disease, we can take preventive measures, particularly in breeds at risk, and contribute to the long-term well-being of our pets.

What is chronic kidney disease?

Chronic kidney disease is characterised by a progressive and irreversible deterioration in kidney function over time. The kidneys lose their ability to purify the blood effectively, leading to an accumulation of waste products and toxins in the body. The symptoms of chronic kidney disease are invisible at first. As the disease progresses, they may appear subtly, becoming obvious in the advanced stages; this is known as kidney failure.

Which breeds are predisposed to chronic kidney disease?

In dogs, certain breeds are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than others. Predisposed breeds include the Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu and Bull Terrier, to name but a few. Among cats, the Persian, Siamese, Abyssinian and Burmese breeds are also considered more at risk.

What are the signs of chronic kidney disease?

In dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease, common signs include increased drinking and urine output, loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy and vomiting. In the advanced stages of the disease, complications such as electrolyte imbalances, anaemia and renal failure can occur, putting the animal’s life at risk.

Early detection of chronic kidney disease is essential to slow its progression and improve the animal’s quality of life. Pet owners should be alert to the early signs of the disease and consult their vet as soon as they notice them.

If the warning signs are not specific, health checks, in particular urine and blood tests, can help identify the disease at an early stage and put in place an appropriate management plan.

How can I look after my pet’s kidneys?

As well as keeping a close eye on your pet’s health, there are steps you can take to prevent chronic kidney disease in predisposed dogs and cats or in ageing animals. Make sure you provide a balanced diet adapted to their specific nutritional needs, especially in the case of senior pets. Also encourage hydration by ensuring that your pet always has access to fresh, clean water.

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The importance of diet for skin and coat quality in dogs and cats

The skin is the body's largest organ, representing between 12% and 24% of the animal's weight, and its surface area in a dog weighing around thirty kilograms is close to one square meter. It's hardly surprising, then, that the quality and quantity of the dog's diet can have an impact on this organ, and in the event of a deficiency can lead to problems that go far beyond a simple visual appearance.

Key nutrients for healthy skin and coat

Among the macro-nutrients, proteins play a crucial role. They provide amino acids, including sulphur amino acids, which are essential for the structure of the skin and coat. These are the main components of collagen, which gives the skin its suppleness and resistance, and of keratin, which plays a part in the effectiveness of the skin barrier. Lipids are also important; they make up the bulk of cell membranes and, in the skin, contribute significantly to the effectiveness of the cutaneous barrier. Among lipids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help maintain healthy skin, modulate inflammatory mechanisms and promote a shiny, soft coat. Vitamins and minerals are also involved. Vitamin A is necessary for cell renewal, as is vitamin D, which also plays a part in the skin's natural defences. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, while B vitamins and biotin are essential co-factors in the synthesis of various skin elements such as ceramides, keratin and collagen. Among the minerals, zinc is involved in synthesis, protection against free radicals and immune defence mechanisms.

Disorders linked to inadequate nutrition

Inadequate or poor-quality food can lead to skin problems in our pets. A deficiency in essential fatty acids leads to dry, flaky skin, a dull coat and brittle hair. When it's the vitamins and minerals that are in short supply, synthesis is affected, the skin barrier can be less effective and the breeding ground for infections and inflammations that can lead to itching. On the other hand, these nutritional benefits can be used to compensate for individual sensitivities and improve the quality of the skin and coat in the event of dermatological disorders or diseases.

Conclusion

The quality of a dog's skin and the beauty of its coat are directly influenced by the quality of its diet. However, some dogs and cats have increased needs, and it is therefore necessary to provide them with greater quantities of useful nutrients. This is particularly true in the case of certain dermatological disorders, to help compensate for imbalances and accompany the medical treatments prescribed by your vet.