What is nephrotic syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is a condition where the kidneys affect the body's protein and fluid balance, leading to signs such as swelling, reduced appetite, and fatigue. A veterinary examination and discussion of treatment options is recommended.

What can I observe at home?

Keep a daily record of your pet's appetite, water intake, urination frequency, and weight changes, and take videos of their breathing or activity level — this information helps the vet assess the condition.

What tests will be done at the clinic?

Common tests include a blood chemistry panel, complete blood count, urinalysis, and abdominal ultrasound; X-rays or advanced imaging may be arranged if needed to evaluate the kidneys and check for fluid accumulation.

Does nephrotic syndrome require long-term monitoring?

In most cases, ongoing monitoring of kidney function, electrolytes, and weight is needed. Your vet will adjust the diet and treatment plan based on test results — regular follow-up visits are strongly recommended.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Nephrotic Syndrome in Dogs & Cats: Weakness, Swelling, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by heavy proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema, and may be complicated by thrombosis — aggressive treatment of the underlying cause is essential.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, ISFM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Very labored breathing, open-mouth breathing, and unable to stay calm
•Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness with no response
•Gums or lips visibly purple or pale white

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent lethargy and noticeably reduced activity
•Decreased appetite or refusing to eat voluntarily for several days
•Distended abdomen or a fluid-sloshing sensation when touched

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Nephrotic syndrome in dogs and cats often presents with systemic signs, including reduced activity, changes in breathing, and swelling of the abdomen or limbs — some acute changes require immediate veterinary attention.

Persistent weakness and a noticeable decline in activity level
Increased respiratory rate or labored breathing
Brief episodes of collapse or repeated lethargy and slow responsiveness
Abdominal distension or a fluid wave felt on palpation
Obvious swelling of the limbs, around the eyes, or in the abdomen
Changes in gum or skin color (pale or purple-tinged)

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Severely labored breathing, open-mouth breathing, and inability to settle
⚠️ Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness with no response
⚠️ Noticeably blue or white gums or lips

02How can you assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to go to the emergency vet

Monitoring and recording key changes at home can help your vet assess the condition and determine the right time to seek care.

Count and record breaths per minute and note any panting or open-mouth breathing
Observe mental status: alert, lethargic, or unresponsive — note the timing
Record daily food intake and track whether your pet's appetite is changing
Note the frequency of urination and bowel movements, urine volume, and any changes in urine color
Weigh your pet daily and track trends in weight gain or loss
Seek veterinary care promptly if you notice warning signs such as severe lethargy or breathing difficulty

03How does the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, blood, urine, and imaging tests are commonly used to evaluate kidney function, electrolytes, and whether fluid accumulation or other complications are present.

Complete blood count (CBC)

to assess for anemia or signs of infection

Blood chemistry panel

to evaluate kidney function, electrolytes, and protein levels

Urinalysis

including urine specific gravity, urine protein, and urine sediment assessment

Abdominal ultrasound

to evaluate kidney structure and check for ascites

Thoracic/abdominal X-rays or advanced imaging (CT/MRI) if indicated

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment focuses on stabilizing fluid and electrolyte balance and managing complications; regular follow-up visits are needed after discharge to monitor kidney function and symptom progression.

In the acute phase, intravenous fluids are often used to stabilize hydration and electrolytes
Hospitalization may be needed for continuous monitoring of blood pressure and urine output
Adjust prescription diet and fluid management strategies as directed by your vet
Severe anemia or electrolyte imbalances require close monitoring and supportive care
Regular blood tests to track kidney function and adjust the treatment plan accordingly
Schedule follow-up visits to monitor symptom changes and lab results
For long-term management, nephrology or internal medicine specialist follow-up is recommended

05What should you prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Write down when symptoms started and a timeline of how they have progressed

Bring a record of your pet's food and water intake over the past three days

Note urination frequency, urine volume, and any changes in urine color

List all current medications and supplements your pet is taking

If possible, bring a fresh urine sample or a video of your pet's symptoms

Consider booking a clinic with blood testing and imaging capabilities

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.