Nephrology
Canine and feline nephrology is an area of veterinary medicine dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases of the kidneys and urinary system. Specialization of Nephrologists is a treatment of such problems as kidney failure, urinary tract infections, and other kidney diseases. Kidney disease can seriously affect your pet's health and quality of life, so it is important to seek professional help timely.
What procedures are performed in the Nephrology Department?
1. Kidney function evaluation:
• Blood tests: performed to determine such kidney function indicators as creatinine, urea, electrolytes and other parameters helping to assess the condition of the kidneys and determine their proper function.
• Urine tests: urine concentration, pH, protein content, blood cells and other indicators that may indicate kidney or urinary tract diseases are evaluated.
2. Ultrasound kidney examination:
• ultrasound is used to evaluate the structure of the kidneys and urinary tract, to identify kidney stones, cysts, tumours or other pathological changes. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure providing detailed information about the condition of the kidneys.
3. Kidney biopsy:
• if more serious kidney disease is suspected, a kidney biopsy may be performed. A small sample of kidney tissue is taken during the procedure and is examined under a microscope to determine an accurate diagnosis of the disease and select the appropriate treatment.
4. Diagnostics and treatment of urinary tract infections:
• bacteriological urine tests are performed to identify the causative agents of the infection; appropriate antibiotics or other medications are selected to treat the infection.
5. Intravenous fluid therapy:
• pets with acute or chronic renal failure often require intravenous fluid therapy to maintain proper hydration, flush out toxins, and maintain electrolyte balance in the body.
6. Diet and nutritional correction:
• pets with kidney disease are often given a special diet low in protein and phosphorus helping to reduce the burden on the kidneys and slow the progression of the disease. Veterinarian will help to select the most appropriate diet and supplements based on your pet’s individual needs.
7. Monitoring and treatment of chronic renal failure:
• pets with chronic renal failure must be examined regularly to monitor the progress of the disease and adjust treatment. This may include medication prescription, diet adjustment, and periodic blood and urine tests.
8. Haemodialysis (when possible):
• haemodialysis is used as a temporary measure in pets with severe kidney failure to remove toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform this function. HAEMODIALYSIS PROCEDURE IS PROVIDED in our veterinary hospital.
When to apply to Veterinarian Nephrologist?
1. Increased thirst and frequent urination:
• if you notice your pet drinking an unusually large amount of water or urinating frequently, these may be signs of kidney disease or diabetes that require urgent consultation with a Nephrologist.
2. Urine changes:
• if your pet's urine has changed colour, become bloody, cloudy, or if you notice pain when urinating, this could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or kidney disease.
3. Weight loss and decreased appetite:
• kidney disease often causes loss of appetite, nausea, and weight loss; if you notice these symptoms, it is necessary to consult a specialist.
4. Vomiting and lethargy:
• these symptoms may indicate acute kidney failure or another serious health problem; it is important to get qualified help as soon as possible.
5. Old age:
• older pets are at increased risk of developing kidney disease; it is recommended to have their kidney function checked regularly, even if there are no noticeable symptoms.
6. Anamnesis of kidney or urinary tract disease:
• if your pet has previously suffered from kidney or urinary tract diseases, regular visits to a Nephrologist are necessary to prevent relapse or new complications.
Nephrology care is the key to longevity and health of your pet
Timely diagnosis of kidney and urinary system problems and properly applied treatment can significantly improve a quality of life of your pet and extend its life expectancy. If you notice any symptoms indicating kidney disease, or if your pet is in the risk group, consult a Veterinary Nephrologist immediately. Your pet's health is our priority.
Register for consultation by phone +3701288788
Head of Department, Veterinarian Lukas Grėbliauskas
Doctors of Department:
Veterinarian Evelina Marija Andruškevič