Distilling The Facts About Horses' Kidneys

 bloodstream to replenish any deficits. Any water needed by the circulatory system is absorbed and waste products are sent to the bladder to be discharged in urine.

Fluid control and hormone production

The kidneys monitor and regulate fluid volume and control the acidity and alkalinity balance. They also produce hormones that support the production of red blood cells and help regulate blood pressure.

Kidney trouble

Despite the kidneys working hard all day, every day, only a very few horses are diagnosed with kidney disease.

Signs of kidney dysfunction can be difficult to spot but may include:

Abnormal urination, which may be increased, strong smelling or discolouredWeight lossDental tartar and gum inflammation caused by the build up of urea and ammonia circulating in the bloodLethargyReduced performanceReduced appetiteLack of sheen or a rough coat

How is kidney dysfunction treated?

While acute kidney failure can be curable if the underlying cause can be addressed and fluid and electrolyte loses corrected, chronic kidney failure is progressively damaging, destroying more and more of the cells needed to regulate fluids. Short-term quality of life may be improved by dietary modifications but the long-term outlook is poor.

If you are worried your horse may be showing signs of kidney dysfunction contact your vet who will be able to take blood and urine samples to diagnose the problem.

Did you know?

The horse’s blood will pass through the kidneys more than 60 times in 24 hours. A horse produces up to 15 litres of urine each day. The fat around the kidneys, called peri-renal fat, is shock-absorbing and insulating. It is the last body fat to go during starvation.