Kidney Disease in Senior Pets: Why A Veterinary Wellness and Sick Visit Matters

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10.3.2024

Kidney Disease in Senior Pets: Why A Veterinary Wellness and Sick Visit Matters

As our furry friends age, they become more susceptible to various health issues, with chronic kidney disease being one of the most common yet often overlooked conditions.

At Staten Island Veterinary Group, we emphasize the importance of regular veterinary wellness and sick visits to catch and manage this silent threat early on.

Understanding Kidney Disease in Senior Pets

Chronic kidney disease is a progressive condition that can sneak up on your pet without showing obvious symptoms until it's quite advanced.

This is why veterinary wellness and sick visits are crucial for senior pets - they allow us to detect subtle changes before they become major problems.

Common Signs of Kidney Disease

While early stages might not show clear symptoms, advanced kidney disease can manifest as:

  • Increased thirst and urination

  • Loss of appetite

  • Weight loss

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Lethargy

If you notice any of these signs, it's time for a veterinary wellness and sick visit right away.

The Power of Veterinary Wellness and Sick Visit

Regular check-ups are your best defense against kidney disease.

During a veterinary wellness and sick visit, we perform comprehensive health screenings, including blood tests and urinalysis, which can reveal early signs of kidney dysfunction.

Catching the disease early gives us more options for management and can significantly improve your pet's quality of life.

Specialized Care for Kidney Disease

If we detect kidney disease during a veterinary wellness and sick visit, we'll create a tailored management plan that may include:

  • Prescription diets to support kidney function

  • Medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression

  • Fluid therapy to maintain hydration

  • Regular monitoring through follow-up veterinary wellness and sick visits

Dietary Management

Diet plays a crucial role in managing kidney disease.

During your pet's veterinary wellness and sick visit, we'll discuss specialized renal diets that are lower in protein, phosphorus, and sodium to reduce the workload on the kidneys.

These diets can help slow the progression of the disease and keep your pet feeling better for longer.

The Importance of Hydration

Proper hydration is vital for pets with kidney disease.

We'll guide you on ways to encourage your pet to drink more water and may recommend subcutaneous fluid therapy during veterinary wellness and sick visits if needed.

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

Kidney disease management is an ongoing process that requires regular veterinary wellness and sick visits.

We'll monitor your pet's kidney function, adjust treatments as needed, and address any new symptoms or concerns promptly.

This proactive approach helps us stay ahead of the disease and maintain your pet's quality of life.

The Role of Pet Parents

Your observations at home are invaluable.

Between veterinary wellness and sick visits, keep an eye on your pet's appetite, water intake, urination habits, and overall energy levels.

Report any changes to us promptly - your insights help us provide the best care possible.

A Team Approach to Senior Pet Health

At Staten Island Veterinary Group, we believe in partnering with pet parents to provide the best care for senior pets.

Regular veterinary wellness and sick visits, combined with your attentive care at home, create a strong defense against kidney disease and other age-related conditions.

Together, we can help your senior pet enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Don't wait for symptoms to appear. 

Plan a veterinary wellness and sick visit for your senior pet today. 

Early detection and management of kidney disease can make a world of difference. 

Contact Staten Island Veterinary Group now to book your pet's comprehensive health check-up and ensure they're getting the care they need as they age.


References
  • International Renal Interest Society (IRIS). (2019). "IRIS Staging of CKD."

  • American Veterinary Medical Association. (2021). "Senior Pet Care (FAQ)."

  • Cornell Feline Health Center. (2022). "Chronic Kidney Disease."

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