Fanconi syndrome is a pet health condition that occurs when tubules of the kidneys do not function as they should. Normally, these tubules reabsorb such things as vitamins, sugars and minerals so that the body can reuse them. However, in Fanconi syndrome, this reabsorption does not occur. Instead, essential solutes end up in the urine and are then excreted from the body. Solutes that are often lost include potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, glucose, amino acids and phosphorus. This disease can occur in both dogs and cats; however, it is seen more often in canines.
How Fanconi Syndrome Affects Your Pet
Since pets that have Fanconi syndrome cannot concentrate their urine, they most always experience excessive thirst, drinking and urination. As the disease progresses, your pet may begin to lose weight, become severely dehydrated and experience electrolyte imbalances. Many pets develop metabolic acidosis as well. In the most severe cases, Fanconi syndrome can lead to such pet health problems as seizures, dementia, central blindness, acute renal failure and death. However, less than 20 percent of all cases of Fanconi syndrome are known to progress to this extent.
Common Symptoms of Fanconi Syndrome
Symptoms of Fanconi syndrome may vary depending on how far the disease has progressed and whether or not renal failure has occurred. However, there are some common warning signs you can be on the look-out for. Common Symptoms of Fanconi Syndrome in Pets are listed here: Excessive Thirst and/or Urination, Dehydration, Loss of Appetite, Weight Loss, Overall Poor Body Condition, Lethargy/Tires Easily, Abnormal Growth (Young Animals), Electrolyte Imbalances, Metabolic Acidosis, Renal Failure, Seizures, Dementia and Central Blindness.
Treatments for Fanconi Syndrome
Fanconi syndrome can be either inherited or acquired; however, in either case, there are no cures. There are some ways that you can slow down the progression of the disease though. For one thing, you must make sure that your pet has fresh drinking water at all times. Additionally, you will need to feed your cat or dog a special diet that will encourage proper kidney function. Depending on your pet’s unique case, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for any urinary tract infections and to reduce the chance of renal failure. Potassium citrate can provide the potassium your pet needs and help with alkalinization. Other medications and treatments that may be necessary include vitamin and mineral supplements, calcium phosphorus supplements, amino fuel tabs, and sodium bicarbonate tabs.
Breeds Affected
As stated above, Fanconi syndrome can be either inherited or acquired. As such, any breed of dog or cat can develop the condition. However, when it comes to inherited cases, Basenjis are the most common canines affected by the disease. It has been determined to be genetic in several other breeds as well though, and they are listed below. Breeds Most Vulnerable to Fanconi Syndrome: Norwegian Elkhounds, Schnauzers, Border Terriers, Whippets, Shetland Sheepdogs, Yorkshire Terriers and Labrador Retrievers.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
