Kidney problems in horses

Kidneys have the function of purifying the blood and passing waste products into the urine. The waste products are transported out of the body through urine. In addition, the kidneys maintain the salt balance and ensure that not too much water and nutrients leave the body through the skin. If a horse has kidney problems, this purifying function is less effective and waste products will accumulate in the body. This is not always noticed in time in horses. Read in this article more about the symptoms and treatment of kidney problems in horses.

How do you recognize kidney problems in horses?

Kidney problems are usually not clearly visible at the beginning. However, there are a number of symptoms that may indicate kidney problems:

• Dull coat
• Decreased appetite
• Increased or decreased thirst
• Reduced urination or very watery urine
• Horse looks thicker/bloated
• Easily tired and short of breath
• Loss of condition
• Mouth blisters

Did you know that in mares, the kidneys are linked to the movement of the ovaries? If a mare has many problems around her ovulation/heat, also consider the function of the kidneys. It may be that the pain during heat is more severe.

Treatment of kidney problems

If a horse has kidney problems, the kidney function gradually decreases. The earlier this is noticed, the better. To support the function of the kidneys, a herbal supplement can help. The herbs aid in purifying the blood. For example, nettle tincture can be used in case of decreased kidney function. Nettle is blood-purifying and thus supports the kidneys, it also has an alkaline effect.