Proteinuria: Diagnosis, Clinical Significance, and Management
Proteinuria is a common yet clinically important finding in small animal practice that may represent early kidney disease, systemic illness, or significant glomerular pathology. This session will provide a practical, evidence-based approach to the diagnosis, interpretation, and management of proteinuria in dogs and cats for the general practitioner. Attendees will review the pathophysiology and classification of proteinuria, including pre-renal, renal, and post-renal causes, as well as transient versus persistent proteinuria. Emphasis will be placed on a stepwise diagnostic approach, interpretation of urine protein-to-creatinine (UPC) ratios, blood pressure assessment, and appropriate staging and monitoring. Current treatment strategies, including renoprotective therapies, dietary management, and when referral or renal biopsy may be indicated, will also be discussed. Participants will leave with practical tools to confidently recognize, investigate, and manage proteinuric patients in everyday practice.
- Develop a practical diagnostic approach to proteinuria in dogs and cats, including differentiation of pre-renal, renal, and post-renal causes and transient versus persistent proteinuria.
- Learn how to interpret UPC ratios, urinalysis findings, blood pressure measurements, and concurrent laboratory abnormalities to guide clinical decision-making.
- Understand evidence-based treatment strategies, including renoprotective therapies, dietary management, and monitoring recommendations for proteinuric patients.
- Gain confidence in identifying cases that warrant advanced diagnostics, referral, or renal biopsy and improve client communication regarding prognosis and long-term management.
