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Urolithiasis is a disease caused by the presence and effects of uroliths (stones) or
excessive amounts of crystals in the urinary tract. The disease is referred to by many names,
including cystitis, urethritis, urinary calculi, bladder stones, or kidney stones. As in humans,
these stones and crystals can form anywhere in the urinary tract of the dog, including the kidney,
urethra, or most commonly, the bladder. ... A diet that includes
excess protein has also been found to contribute to stone formation. This paper will focus
primarily on the functioning of the kidneys, problems of renal failure in dogs, the importance of
protein in the canine diet, and the effect that protein has on the kidneys’ ability to operate. ... com)
First off, it is important to understand the necessity of the kidney to the functioning of the
animal. ... As one can see, a malfunctioning kidney, unable to perform
these functions, can cause many problems for the animal. ... Fortunately, due to both the reserve capacity of the kidney and the ability of the
nephrons to grow larger, the kidney can still function. If damage to nephrons occurs gradually a
kidney can continue to function with as few as 25 percent of its original nephrons. ... com)
When the number of functioning nephrons drops below 25 percent or when damage occurs
too suddenly for the remaining nephrons to compensate, kidney failure occurs. There are two
types of kidney failure. Acute kidney failure is a sudden loss of function that is sometimes but
not always reversible. Chronic kidney failure is an irreversible loss of function that occurs
gradually over months or years. ... Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is the primary solid component of urine and the
end product of protein decomposition. ... Creatinine levels are kidney specific and not as affected by diet and protein
catabolism as BUN levels. Dehydration has the most effect on BUN but can affect creatinine as
well. High protein levels are also commonly associated with dehydration. ... This can lead to a very toxic condition and
can occur in severe kidney disease. ...
Failing kidneys may also produce extremely dilute urine or urine that contains too much protein.
Healthy kidneys produce concentrated urine that is relatively protein-free. (Ettinger, 126)
Kidney stones are a fairly common ailment that affects the canine population. It is very
important for dog owners to be able to recognize the symptoms of canine kidney stones and to be
aware that the condition exists. ... These crystals or
stones irritate the bladder lining causing urinary tract infection, urinary blockage and ultimate
kidney failure. ... com)
Some research has linked diets that are high in magnesium and phosphorous along with
high protein foods to this condition. ... Dogs who are predisposed to bladder
stones may require a low protein diet, or a low mineral prescription diet for life in order to
prevent their recurrence.
Approximate Word count = 2288
Approximate Pages = 9.2
(250 words per page double spaced)
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