I have a 13lb. (5.9kg) female schnauzer/poodle mix who is currently 12 years old.
On March 16, she was given a dental chew. Later that night, she threw up the chew and we found a lot of urination throughout the house. After that, she appeared OK.
Mar 17, we found more urine that she produced during the night.
Mar 18, she urinated in her sleep while laying next to me; something she has never done. I also noticed that this urine was colorless and oderless. She has also been drinking 3 to 4 times more water than normal.
Mar 19, thinking it might be a UTI, we took her to the vet and she was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Her lab test results are:
| Test | Result | Range | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neutrophil | 85.0 | 42.0-84.0 | % |
| Eosinophil | 0.2 | 1.0-18.0 | % |
| Hemoglobin (HGB) | 20.6 | 1.0-18.0 | g/dL |
| Hematocrit (HCT) | 57.92 | 37.0-55.0 | % |
| MCH | 26.4 | 19.5-24.5 | pg |
| BUN | 49.0 !!! | 7.0-27.0 | mg/dL |
| Calcium | 2.5 | 7.9-12.0 | mg/dL |
| Creatinine | 2.5 !!! | 0.5-1.8 | mg/dL |
The results of all other tests are within normal range.
The vet put her on a special diet (Royal Canin KD) and stated to return in a month for retest.
Mar 19 through today Mar 22, her drinking and urination continue to be excessive. I'm guessing she drinks 3-4 cups (0.7-0.9 L) per day and urinates just as much. Her urine also remains clear and oderless.
Other than the excessive drinking and urination, she has no other symptoms. She is just as playful and energetic as she has always been, not lethargic, no obvious pain or discomfort.
I know the prognosis for CKD is not good. I'm taking her to another vet on Mar 26 for a second opinion and more tests.
My questions are:
- How likely is it truly CKD, vs acute kidney disease or even Pyelonephritis?
- Any medications to help with kidney function?
- Any supplements to help with kidney function (Aventi KP and/or Epakitin)?
- What can we do about excessive urination (other than frequent trips outside and diapers at night)?
She is not my dog, she is my daughter and I want to do everything I can to help her. Any input is welcome and will be discussed with a vet.
Thank you!