Cats have two kidneys in their abdomen. These organs play a vital role in filtering toxins from the body and expelling them through urination. They also manage electrolyte and protein levels, essential for the body'sbody's normal functions.
A kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, impacts the renal pelvis—the part of the kidney that channels urine to the ureter and then carries it to the bladder. Infections in the kidneys are classified as upper urinary tract infections, while those in the bladder and urethra are known as lower urinary tract infections.
While kidney infections are relatively rare in cats, lower urinary tract infections are more common. However, it's important to be aware that certain cats are at a higher risk for kidney infections. This includes cats with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, frequent lower urinary tract infections, urinary tract stones, and those with immune disorders like feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus. Cats with congenital kidney conditions such as amyloidosis or polycystic kidney disease are also more susceptible.
Untreated pyelonephritis can lead to severe complications such as kidney dysfunction, kidney failure, or sepsis—a severe bacterial infection that spreads to the bloodstream. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for preventing these severe outcomes.
Kidney Infection Cause In Cats
In cats, kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, are most often caused by bacterial infections, particularly E. coli or Staphylococcus. These infections typically begin in the urethra or bladder and then travel to the ureters and kidneys.
Several factors can increase a cat's risk of developing kidney infections. These include anatomical abnormalities such as ectopic ureters and renal dysplasia and medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, kidney failure, and urinary tract stones. Chronic use of steroids, prolonged urine retention, and urinary catheterization, which can introduce external bacteria, are also significant risk factors.
Kidney Infection Symptoms In Cats
Symptoms of kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, can vary from mild to severe. Often, there are no noticeable signs in the early stages. As the infection progresses, you might observe the following symptoms in your cat:
Increased urination or thirst
Straining to urinate
Blood at the end of urination
Pain when touching the kidneys or abdomen
Vomiting
Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
Urinating outside the litter box
Fever
Vocalizing during urination
Decreased appetite
Back pain
Urine with a foul odor
Lethargy
Kidney Infection Diagnosis In Cats
To diagnose a kidney infection in your cat, your vet will start with a thorough history and physical examination. They will likely recommend bloodwork to check kidney enzymes, protein levels, electrolytes, and blood cell counts. This helps identify any underlying systemic diseases.
A urinalysis will be conducted to detect signs of infection, such as blood, protein, white blood cells, or bacteria in the urine. A urine culture may also required to be done to identify the specific bacteria and choose the best antibiotics.
Imaging tests like abdominal radiographs and ultrasounds are often used to distinguish between lower and upper urinary tract infections and to check for urinary stones or congenital issues that could lead to kidney infections.
Kidney Infection Treatment In Cats
The treatment of pyelonephritis in cats depends on the severity and underlying cause. Most cats can be treated as outpatients unless they are not eating, are dehydrated, in pain, or showing signs of sepsis or kidney failure. Serious cases often require hospitalization for intravenous fluids and antibiotics.
Milder cases, where cats are eating and well-hydrated, can typically be treated with oral antibiotics and occasionally pain relief medication. If pyelonephritis is caused by another systemic disease, that condition must also be addressed. Surgery might be needed if urinary tract stones are present, particularly in the bladder, as they can lead to infections and increase the risk of urinary blockages, a medical emergency.
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