What it is
Each kidney holds a great many tiny filters that clean the blood, letting waste pass into the urine while holding protein back. In this disease the walls of these filters are damaged by inflammation, deposits or an inherited fault, so protein slips through. Albumin, the protein that helps keep water inside the blood vessels, is lost first, and fluid can then leak into the belly or under the skin.
It can be inherited, follow long-lasting inflammation or infection elsewhere in the body, or develop with no clear trigger. Losing protein can also make the blood clot too easily and raise blood pressure.
Because the early stages can pass without any signs, regular urine tests and blood pressure checks matter for dogs at risk. At home, a dog may need more water, more chances to go outside and more rest on days when it feels weak.
Signs you may notice
- Drinks and urinates more
- Eats less
- Losing weight
- Repeated vomiting
- Swollen belly or legs
- Tired and listless
The dog may drink and urinate more, eat less, lose weight, vomit or become listless. In some dogs fluid builds up in the belly or under the skin, so the belly grows larger or the legs swell.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if your dog drinks or urinates more, loses weight, or its belly or legs swell. If it suddenly struggles to breathe or cannot use its back legs, it needs a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.