KIDNEY
FACTS
Most of our pets thankfully take normal kidney function for granted,
but for some pets kidney disease can be a problem- particularly
as they grow older.
Cats
and dogs have two kidneys. Each kidney has three distinct areas:
the cortex, medulla and pelvis. The cortex and medulla contain
billions of tiny units called NEPHRONS. Blood, carried to each
kidney by the renal artery is then filtered by the millions of
tiny nephrons removing protein breakdown, excess salts and water.
These are then concentrated to form urine which collects in the
pelvis before passing via the ureters into the bladder.
Over
a time a proportion of the nephrons will disappear (with age)
and will not be replaced. Other factors such as toxins, infections
or cancer may also destroy nephrons.
However,
the kidneys have excess filtering capacity with the result that VISIBLE symptoms of kidney disease are not usually
seen until about two thirds of the nephrons have been lost. If
this stage is reached, the kidneys start to lose their capacity
to concentrate the urine leading to large amounts of dilute urine
and increased thirst.
The
filtering capacity fails so toxic waste will accumulate in the
blood resulting in loss of appetite, weight loss, poor coat condition,
apathy and weakness.
Regular
examinations allow us to detect kidney disease before the outward
signs are visible. It is not all bad news however, whilst kidney
disease cannot be cured, new forms of medication and specifically
formulated diets can be of great help. If you are concerned that
your pet is showing any of the symptoms described here, please
do contact us for an appointment!
RABBIT
FACTS Rabbits are now the third most popular pets in
the United Kingdom.
The average life expectancy is 7-10 years, but rabbits as
old as 15 years have been reported
The Following information has been designed to help you
take proper care of your rabbit and to help prevent some
of the more common diseases.
RABBITTING
ON ... ('what's up.. Doc?')
When the warmer spring weather is about to break, rabbits are
once more at risk from the deadly viral disease of MYXOMATOSIS.
This
disease is spread by biting insects such as flies and fleas. The
disease causes puffy swellings around the eyes, usually leading
to blindness. Sadly, even with medication and nursing, most stricken
rabbits will die of this disease.
Rabbits
are also at risk form VIRAL HAEMORRHAGIC DISEASE.
this deadly virus can be brought home on animals, clothes, pet food
and bedding. Affected animals may show a variety of symptoms including
loss of appetite, lethargy and nose bleeds. Sadly most affected
rabbits will quickly succumb and die.
HAPPILY though, there are safe and effective vaccines which can be given
to prevent both of these diseases, so don't take risks.. make sure
YOUR rabbit is protected!
