Cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, Alabama rot in Dogs

Breeds documented
11
Published sources
2

Overview

Tiny clots in small blood vessels can damage skin and kidneys in cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy, also called Alabama rot. The cause is still unknown. It often begins with unexplained skin sores, especially on the feet or lower legs. Some dogs recover with skin disease alone, while others develop kidney failure. It remains a very rare disease.

Signs to watch for

  • Unexplained redness or sores on the paws, feet or legs
  • Sores on the face, mouth or belly
  • Reduced appetite or less energy
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Increased thirst or passing less urine

Dogs across a wide age range can be affected.

When to get help Contact a vet promptly about an unexplained skin sore, especially with appetite or urination changes.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets assess unexplained skin sores and use blood and urine tests to check for kidney injury. These findings can suggest Alabama rot, but they cannot confirm it on their own. A confirmed diagnosis requires examination of kidney tissue, often obtained after death. Most skin sores have other causes.

Breeds with documented risk

11 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Toy
  • 1 Small
  • 6 Medium
  • 3 Large

Most popular breeds on this list

All 11 breeds, A to Z

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. rvc.ac.uk
  2. Bearded Collie: arrf.co.uk