Kidney infections, often caused by bacteria, primarily target the kidneys. While not common, dogs with a history of bladder infections are at higher risk. These infections can occur in dogs of any age but are more common in middle-aged or older females.
Kidney infections are serious. Severe or chronic infections can significantly damage the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has a kidney infection.
Cause Of Kidney Infection In Dogs
Most kidney infections in dogs originate in the bladder, where bacteria travel up the urethra. Bacteria from feces are usually responsible for these infections.
The urinary tract has natural defenses against infection, but specific health issues can weaken these defenses.
- Bladder infection
- Stress
- Prostate disease
- Spinal cord abnormalities
- Cancer
- Bladder inflammation
- Stones in the bladder or urethra
- Trauma
- Not able to hold urine and weak bladder
- Genetic abnormality
Symptoms Of Kidney Infection In Cats
Early signs of kidney infections in dogs can be subtle, often just a general sense of being unwell. Over time, more noticeable symptoms may appear, such as:
- Poor appetite
- Increased thirst and urination
- Frequent small urinations
- Weight loss
- Blood in the urine
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Straining to urinate
- Urinating inside the house
- Vomiting
Diagnosis Of Kidney Infection In Cats
To diagnose kidney infections, vets rely on signs, symptoms, and test results. Blood and urine samples are usually examined; sometimes, X-rays or ultrasounds are necessary.
Diagnosis is often based on clinical signs, urinalysis, positive urine cultures, and improved kidney function after antibiotics. Though rarely performed due to their invasive nature, a positive bacterial culture from a kidney biopsy or pyelocentesis can confirm the diagnosis.
Common tests your vet may perform include:
- Blood tests
- Urine analysis
- Urine culture
- Ultrasound or contrast X-ray
- Radiographs
- Imaging tests
Treatment Of Kidney Infection In Cats
Home remedies cannot treat kidney infections in dogs; prescription antibiotics are essential. Vets initially choose an antibiotic that is likely to work, but adjustments may be made based on urine culture and sensitivity test results.
Dogs with mild symptoms may take oral antibiotics at home. Severely affected dogs might need hospitalization for injectable antibiotics, fluid therapy, and other treatments.
Recovery Of Kidney Infection In Cats
Most dogs with kidney infections need 10–14 days of antibiotics. If your dog appears normal after treatment, your vet may wait one to two weeks before a follow-up check to ensure the infection is completely gone.
Prevention Of Kidney Infection In Cats
Kidney infections often start as bladder infections, so treating bladder infections promptly is key to prevention. If you notice signs like:
- Discomfort when urinating
- Frequent urination in small amounts
- Accidents in the house
- Discolored urine
- Increased licking at the urinary opening
Take your dog to a vet. If your dog has a condition that heightens the risk of infections, the vet can recommend a monitoring plan.
