What does an elevated BUN level mean for a dog?

What does an elevated BUN level mean for a dog?

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen and is the primary end product of protein metabolism. High levels indicate kidney failure or disease, dehydration, shock, high protein diet, certain toxin ingestions, poor circulation to the kidneys and urinary obstruction. Low levels indicate liver disease or starvation.

How can I lower my dogs BUN?

Nutritional supplements that reduce BUN (Azodyl) and phosphorus levels (Epakitin) in the blood. Omega 3 fatty acids to protect the kidneys. Medications to treat or prevent stomach ulcers (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine, omeprazole, sucralfate) Potassium supplements.

What does BUN mean in a dogs blood test?

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. The BUN level is a measurement that represents the level of urea in the blood. Urea is considered one of the body’s waste products. It is produced when the liver participates in protein metabolism, and it is usually eliminated from the body by the kidneys.

What can cause high BUN and creatinine levels in dogs?

The following are a few conditions that can cause abnormal BUN and creatinine levels:

• Dehydration.
• Kidney infection.
• Kidney failure.
• Toxic injury to the kidneys.
• Urinary blockage.
• Shock.
• Severe heart disease.
• Muscle wasting or severe weight loss.

How can I improve my dog’s kidney function?

Feeding a specially formulated kidney-friendly food can help improve your dog’s quality and quantity of life.

1. Reduced phosphorus content.
2. Less — but adequate, higher quality — protein.
3. Limited sodium level.
4. Increased amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil.

How do you give Azodyl to a dog?

Azodyl® is given by mouth in the form of a capsule. It may be given with or without food. Do not open or crush the capsules; give each capsule whole.

What is a good BUN creatinine ratio in dogs?

Normal BUN and creatinine values suggest the kidneys are likely healthy and working well. In this situation a protein:creatinine (UPC) ratio up to 2.0 in both cats and dogs is acceptable.

What causes elevated BUN in dogs?

However, BUN levels can be elevated for other reasons. If the dog wasn’t fasted for at least 12 hours before testing, BUN is likely to be high. A dog that has been on a high-protein diet or is slightly dehydrated can also have slightly elevated BUN results. Stress can also contribute.

What is the normal creatinine and BUN levels for a dog?

The normal levels of creatinine in a dog are 0.6 to 1.2. In order to determine what the dog’s creatinine level is, a small sample of blood is drawn and placed into a special “separator” vacuum blood tube.

What causes elevated BUN levels?

The following factors can lead to elevated BUN levels: kidney damage, failure, or disease. dehydration. shock. urinary tract blockages or disease. gastrointestinal bleeding. heart attack. heart failure.

Why can a dog have elevated bilirubin?

An elevated level of bilirubin in dogs is a result of a dog’s system breaking down red blood cells at an abnormal rate. If your dog has elevated levels of bilirubin, this may be a sign that an underlying health condition is present.