| By :
Grubb Young
Kidney failure, also commonly called renal disease, is a common problem in older cats and dogs. For many pets, it is the natural way in which the body begins to shut down. In other words, kidney failure is the way in which many beloved pets die naturally. It may be natural, but it is still difficult to deal with. In the earlier stages of renal disease, the pet may not have any overt symptoms. As the disease progresses, the pet will likely experience unquenchable thirst, and might have increased urination. When the kidneys do not properly function to remove toxins from the body, the toxins build up making the animal ill. It is important to seek proper veterinary care for a pet suspected to have renal disease. Medication and dietary changes can help improve the animal's quality of life, and prolong its lifespan. As the illness progresses, the cat or dog may find it difficult to control its bladder functions. Many pet owners report pets with kidney failure to have trouble making it to the appropriate location to relieve themselves. The urine of animals with kidney failure also often has a particularly noxious odor. Many a pet owner has had to replace furniture after an ailing pet has urinated on it because even thorough cleaning won't always remove the smell. If a pet does accidentally urinate on the furniture or carpet, blot the wetness up with a clean towel. Enzyme cleaners are available at most pet supply stores, and also many grocery stores, and generally do a good job of removing urine odors. Once as much of the mess as possible is soaked up, douse the spot with a good enzyme cleaner and allow to dry. Follow the instructions on the cleaner's label for best results. Of course, best results are not always as good as "it never happened". When caring for a pet with renal failure, it can be very helpful to use puppy training pads to protect furniture and carpet fabrics. Generally used for puppy housebreaking and puppy crate training, puppy training pads are absorbent, padded sheets that soak up urine. Most puppy training pads have plastic backing to prevent the urine from soaking through. When using them for caring for a pet with kidney failure, it is a good idea to buy the puppy pads wholesale, as it is likely that a lot will be needed. Simply put a "wee wee" pad in all of the pet's favorite sleeping spots. It is also a good idea to slide one under the ailing pet should it rest in an unprotected location. Also place them around the litter box, if the sick pet is a cat, or by the regular exit door for an ill dog. Many pets will regularly try to make it to the appropriate place, but miss by a short distance and using puppy training pads nearby these locations will help save floors from absorbing urine. It can be very difficult to care for a beloved pet in the waning stages of its life. Simple things like puppy pads can help keep the area and the pet clean, and relieve a bit of the stress of the situation. When a pad becomes soiled, simply dispose of it and replace it with a fresh one. Doing so will help the pet be more comfortable as it prepares to say goodbye.
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