Kidney Values

Kidney values are reported on most Complete Blood Count (CBC) panels. The levels of Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine, (CREAT) reported on the CBC will give your veterinarian an idea of the health of your dog’s kidney functions. (A urinalysis and/or imaging may be needed to complete the picture.) Kidney values are monitored during cancer treatment in particular because some medications, and even dietary changes, can cause the kidneys to lose function. Kidney cancer itself is very rare in dogs, but knowing your dog’s kidney values helps your veterinarian monitor their overall health and make treatment changes if there is evidence of kidney harm. Some treatments may need to be modified or not given at all for a dog with pre-existing kidney issues, so this is an important part of your dog’s CBC.