Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Insights into the gut-kidney axis and implications for chronic kidney disease management in cats and dogs.
- Journal:
- Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Summers, Stacie & Quimby, Jessica
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious health issue for both cats and dogs, and new research shows that the health of the gut can significantly affect kidney function. When the balance of bacteria in the gut is disrupted, it can lead to the buildup of harmful substances that worsen kidney problems and cause inflammation throughout the body. This research suggests that improving gut health through diet changes, probiotics (beneficial bacteria), and other treatments could help manage CKD more effectively. By focusing on the gut's role in kidney health, veterinarians may have new ways to help pets with this condition. Overall, the findings indicate that targeting gut health could be a promising approach for treating CKD in pets.
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats and dogs presents significant clinical challenges, with emerging research highlighting the pivotal role of the gut-kidney axis in its pathogenesis and management. Gut dysbiosis, characterized by alterations in the gut microbiome composition and function, contributes to microbial dysmetabolism of key nutrients causing uremic toxin accumulation and disruptions in amino acid, bile acid and fatty acid profiles. These disturbances in turn exacerbate renal dysfunction and systemic inflammation. Recent research in veterinary medicine, particularly in cats, supports the gut microbiome and microbial-derived metabolites as novel therapeutic targets. Potential therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiome and microbial dysmetabolism, including dietary management, probiotics, adsorbents, and addressing constipation, offer promising avenues for intervention to restore metabolic balance and preserve renal function. This review highlights the microbial influence on renal health and focuses on potential therapeutic strategies available to veterinarians to optimize the management of CKD in cats and dogs.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38897377/