Polycystic Kidney Disease

What is Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)?

PKD is a condition in which small cysts begin to slowly develop on the kidneys and replace the organ’s tissue. As a result, the kidneys tend to enlarge and lose their ability to function. This will ultimately lead to kidney failure.


Symptoms

Symptoms of this disease are relatively random and difficult to relate to PKD. For instance, the dog may experience any of the following:

  • Depression
  • Anorexia
  • Excessive drinking
  • Excessive urination
  • Nausea
  • Random vomiting


Causes

PKD is an inherited disease or passed on by the parents. It is actually uncommon in most dog breeds. The one dog breed that typically experiences cases of this disease is the bull terrier.


Treatment and Prevention

Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease. Treatments are relevant to that of any other kidney disease resulting in the failure of the organs. For example:

  • Regulated Protein diet
  • Vitamin D
  • Regulated Phosphorous diet
  • Fluid therapy
The best method of prevention is to simply not breed carriers of this disease. For further information regarding PKD, consult with your family vet.




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