The most lethal cause of anuria is acute kidney failure
. Most often associated with late-stage terminal illness, renal failure can come on unexpectedly in some cases of poisoning, especially when ethylene glycol antifreeze is involved. Without extraordinary medical intervention, kidney failure will result in death within just a few hours. Always be careful with antifreeze; store it in a safe place and cover or wash away any spills immediately. The sweet taste is attractive to both dogs and cats, and only a few licks can bring on permanent health problems.