What is a high BUN in dogs?
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen and is the primary end product of protein metabolism. High levels indicate kidney failure or disease, dehydration, shock, high protein diet, certain toxin ingestions, poor circulation to the kidneys and urinary obstruction. Low levels indicate liver disease or starvation.
What is a concerning BUN level?
In general, around 6 to 24 mg/dL (2.1 to 8.5 mmol/L ) is considered normal. But normal ranges may vary, depending on the reference range used by the lab and your age. Ask your doctor to explain your results. Urea nitrogen levels tend to increase with age.
What level of BUN indicates kidney failure?
If your kidneys are not working well, the urea nitrogen will stay in the blood. Normal blood contains 7-20 mg/dl of urea. If your BUN is more than 20 mg/dL, your kidneys may not be working at full strength. Other possible causes of an elevated BUN include dehydration and heart failure.
How do you treat high BUN levels in dogs?
Nutritional supplements that reduce BUN (Azodyl) and phosphorus levels (Epakitin) in the blood. Omega 3 fatty acids to protect the kidneys. Medications to treat or prevent stomach ulcers (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine, omeprazole, sucralfate) Potassium supplements.
What is a normal BUN to creatinine ratio?
The ideal ratio of BUN to creatinine falls between 10-to-1 and 20-to-1. Having a ratio above this range could mean you may not be getting enough blood flow to your kidneys, and could have conditions such as congestive heart failure, dehydration, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Is a BUN level of 30 high?
The normal BUN level is between about 7 and 21 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Unless this level is greater than 60 mg/dL, it may not help your healthcare provider measure your kidney health. A better measure is the ratio of BUN to creatinine found in your blood.
Is a BUN level of 27 bad?
General reference ranges for a normal BUN level are as follows: Adults up to 60 years of age: 6-20 mg/dL. Adults over 60 years of age: 8-23 mg/dL.
What is normal BUN creatinine ratio in dogs?
Normal BUN and creatinine values suggest the kidneys are likely healthy and working well. In this situation a protein:creatinine (UPC) ratio up to 2.0 in both cats and dogs is acceptable.
Can you lower BUN levels in dogs?
What causes high BUN levels in dogs?
High levels of creatinine and BUN (blood urea nitrogen) in dogs is usually a sign of poor health. Most commonly, these levels are associated with the kidneys and can indicate that your dog is experiencing kidney disease or even kidney failure.
What causes elevated BUN in dogs?
However, BUN levels can be elevated for other reasons. If the dog wasn’t fasted for at least 12 hours before testing, BUN is likely to be high. A dog that has been on a high-protein diet or is slightly dehydrated can also have slightly elevated BUN results. Stress can also contribute.
Is low bun dangerous?
When BUN is Too Low. While low creatinine levels are generally a good thing, low BUN levels may not be. BUN that falls well under the normal range may indicate some degree of liver damage, and this can also be an early sign of malnutrition.
What is the BUN/creatinine ratio in dogs?
Normal BUN and creatinine values suggest the kidneys are likely healthy and working well. In this situation a protein:creatinine ratio up to 2.0 in both cats and dogs is acceptable.