Acute Kidney Disease

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                      General Information



Acute kidney disease is a general term referring to kidney

disease of sudden onset.  About three-fourths of the total kidney

tissue must be damaged before signs of illness appear.  Kidney

disease is often life-threatening, as the body cannot eliminate

waste products or maintain the balance of fluid and elements

vital to life.



Causes of acute kidney disease include infections, chemical

poisons, trauma, urinary tract obstructions and disease of the

immune system.  The resulting damage to the kidneys may not be

reversible in all cases.



Common signs of illness may include depression, lack of

appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption,

and increased or decreased urine output.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Kidney disease is very serious and hospitalization is usually

    required.  Laboratory tests are necessary for diagnosis and

    evaluation of the response to treatment.



2.  Intravenous fluids are given to improve urine production and

    restore normal electrolyte and fluid balance.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Provide ready access to clean, fresh water at all times.



5.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



6.  Activity:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict activity as follows:





        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet refuses to eat.



    * Your pet has diarrhea or vomits.



    * Your pet becomes depressed.



    * Your pet's signs recur after an apparent recovery.



    ____A urine sample is requested.