It is the leading cause of death of cats. It is one of the top causes of death of dogs. And yet many pet owners - dog owners in particular - are unaware of chronic renal failure. What is it? What are the symptoms and how is it diagnosed? Is there any treatment? Perhaps even more important, what can be done to reduce its effect and prolong a pet's life?

This is part one of a multipart entry on the subject of Chronic Renal Failure in dogs and cats.