ANSWERS

Note that some of the questions in this section (those marked with an asterisk) are more advanced than required for the final V.N. exams. However, they are of interest to those already qualified, or studying for the Medical Diploma. Further information may be found in Part II - Laboratory Diagnostic Aids

1. Define the following: anuria, dysuria, oliguria, polyuria, pollakuria and tenesmus.
   • Anuria - cessation of the secretion of urine
   • Dysuria - painful or difficult urination.
   • Oliguria - a deficient secretion of urine.
   • Polyuria - increased production of urine.
   • Pollakuria - frequent, inadequate production of urine.
   • Tenesmus - difficulty urinating or passing faeces.
2. What is the term that is used to describe inflammation of the kidney?
   Nephritis.
3. Define the following: glomerulonephritis and pyelonephritis.
   • Glomerulonephritis - a type of nephritis that affects the capillary loops in the glomeruli of the kidney.
   • Pyelonephritis - Inflammation of the kidney and renal pelvis.
4. What is azotaemia?
   High serum concentrations of urea and creatinine.
5. Azotaemia occurs if what percentage of nephrons are not filtering?
   75%.
6. What is uraemia?
   A syndrome that occurs in end stage renal failure. This is due to excesses of blood urea, creatinine and other nitrogenous end products of protein and amino acid metabolism. Clinical signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, anaemia and eventually coma and death.
7. List 6 general signs of chronic renal failure.
   • Polyuria.
   • Polydipsia.
   • Uraemia (vomiting, diarrhoea etc).
   • Weight loss.
   • Dehydration.
   • Oral ulceration.
8. List 8 possible causes of acute renal failure.
   • Bacterial or viral infection.
   • Dehydration.
   • Hypovolaemic shock.
   • Haemorrhage.
   • Anaesthesia.
   • Burns.
   • Toxins (eg. ethylene glycol).
   • Blocked bladder.
9. What medical condition is often seen in conjunction with chronic renal disease in cats?
   Hypertension.
10. What is the name of the drug produced by Novartis Animal Health that was originally manufactured for the treatment of heart failure, and is now licensed for the treatment of chronic renal failure in cats?
    Fortekor.
11. *What is the name of the zoonotic disease that is carried by sandflies, is common in Sardinia and Sicily and results in chronic renal failure?
    Leishmaniasis.
12. Give examples of 3 prescription diets suitable for the feeding of cats with chronic renal failure.
    • Hills Feline K/D.
    • Waltham Feline Renal Support.
    • Eukanuba Feline Renal Support.
13. List 3 properties of diets ideal for the long-term management of renal dysfunction.
    • Restricted phosphorous.
    • Restricted protein (of a high biological value).
    • Low in sodium chloride.
14. Give 4 reasons why animals with acute renal failure require fluid therapy.
    • To stimulate diuresis.
    • To remove metabolic waste products.
    • To maintain hydration.
    • To restore electrolyte balance.
15. What is an ectopic ureter?
    A ureter that is implanted onto the urethra rather than the urinary bladder.
16. What is the medical term describing inflammation of the bladder?
    Cystitis.
17. List 3 signs of cystitis.
    • Haematuria.
    • Tenesmus.
    • Increased frequency of urination.
18. What is the name of the condition describing the accumulation of mineral deposits in the urine that form bladder stones?
    Urolithiasis.
19. Give 2 alternative names for bladder stones?
    • Uroliths.
    • Calculi.
20. What is the name of the Hills diet designed especially for the dissolution of struvite uroliths?
    Hills S/D (this diet is available in both canine and feline versions).
21. Why does Hills S/D diet contain elevated sodium chloride levels?
    In order to promote diuresis.
22. Give 2 examples of canine prescription diets designed as a nutritional aid for recurrent struvite urolithiasis.
    • Hills Canine C/D.
    • Waltham Canine Lower Urinary Tract Support.
23. What is the name of the Hills diet designed for the prevention of the recurrence of calcium oxalate urolithiasis in cats?
    Hills Feline X/D.