At Vets to Pets, we provide elevated, Fear Free, in-home veterinary care throughout Northern Virginia. Seeing pets in their own environment allows us to notice subtle changes in behavior, appetite, and habits that can signal early disease. Kidney disease is a common condition, especially in older cats and dogs, and catching it early can dramatically improve quality of life. Our goal is to guide pet parents through recognition, management, and prevention, all with a calm and personalized approach.

What Is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys lose the ability to filter toxins from the blood effectively. It can develop gradually (chronic kidney disease, CKD) or suddenly (acute kidney injury). Chronic kidney disease is more common in older pets and tends to progress slowly, while acute injury can result from toxins, infections, or dehydration.

Signs to Watch For

Pets are masters at hiding illness, but some changes may indicate kidney problems:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Loss of appetite or weight
  • Vomiting or nausea
  • Lethargy or reduced activity
  • Bad breath or ulcers in the mouth
  • Dehydration or poor coat condition

If you notice any combination of these signs, an early veterinary evaluation is critical.

Diagnosis and Monitoring

During an in-home visit, we can assess your pet’s hydration, weight, and overall condition. Bloodwork and urinalysis are the gold standard for diagnosis and monitoring. Early detection allows us to intervene before the disease severely impacts quality of life.

Managing Kidney Disease at Home

While kidney disease is chronic, management can help pets live comfortably for months or years:

  • Prescription kidney diets: Specially formulated foods reduce kidney workload and help maintain hydration.
  • Hydration support: Encouraging water intake and, in some cases, subcutaneous fluids.
  • Medication: To manage symptoms like nausea, blood pressure, or anemia.
  • Routine monitoring: Regular bloodwork and urinalysis to track progression.

Because we visit pets in their homes, we can help ensure that diet changes, medications, and fluid therapy are practical and stress-free.

Preventive Steps

Even before kidney disease develops, you can support kidney health by:

  • Providing fresh water at all times
  • Offering high-quality nutrition appropriate for age and breed
  • Monitoring for subtle changes in drinking, urination, or energy
  • Scheduling regular wellness exams

Early intervention is key — and catching kidney disease before it becomes severe can make all the difference.