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In order to understand Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in pets and assess how to treat each animal depending on how far their CKD has progressed, the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) developed a staging system for CKD. This staging system allows veterinary professionals to determine what the next step should be in treating each pets CKD, depending on the progression of their disease.   Staging of CKD must be done when the disease is not actively getting worse. Veterinarians will need to repeat the lab work after making changes to the pet's treatment plan so they can see if the...

While any pet can be at risk for developing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), there are certain attributes that are associated with an increased risk. If your pet falls into one of these categories and is considered “at risk”, it is imperative that their kidney function is assessed regularly through blood work or Kidney-Chek™ testing. Being “at risk” does not mean your pet will develop CKD, but it does mean that you should be aware that your pet is at a higher risk, and that preventative screening is especially important for your pet.   Try Our Risk Assessment Quiz!   Breed...

While there is no way to reverse kidney damage that has already occurred in pets with CKD, important steps must be taken to mitigate further damage and ensure your pet stays as healthy and comfortable. The earlier CKD is detected, the more effective treatment will be in extending your pets life and improving their quality of life. Hydration First and foremost, it is imperative that fresh water be available to pets with CKD at all times. With the loss of kidney function, pets will lose excessive amounts of water in the form of urine. Because of this, drinking more water...

The purpose of the kidneys is to clear waste products from the blood. Animal kidneys are made up of hundreds of thousands of nephrons, which are comprised of a small filter and long tubule. The filter (called the glomerulus) filters the blood, and allows water, waste products, and other select molecules through to the tubules. As this fluid moves through the tubules, the kidneys reclaim water and substances that the body needs, and allow the waste products and excess water to go out into the collecting ducts. The collecting ducts bring waste products, in the form of urine, to the...