Today, our Bruceville Pet Hospital vets talk about kidney infections in dogs, including the causes and symptoms of this illness, and the treatment options available.
Causes
Kidney infections in dogs are often caused by either a bacterial urinary tract infection that spreads, kidney stones, parasites, or other diseases. Left untreated can lead to kidney failure and death. If you suspect your dog has a kidney infection and shows any of the symptoms go see the vet.
Symptoms
A dog suffering from a kidney infection may display the following symptoms:
- Poor appetite
- Foul-smelling urine
- Excessive urination or difficulty urinating
- Excessive thirst
- Blood in urine or discolored urine
- Pain in the side or abdomen
- Hunching over
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Fever
Treatment
The Treatment of the infection will depend on the cause of the infection. Your veterinarian will need to run some tests often involving taking a urine sample.
If it's a bacterial infection - antibiotics.
If it's kidney stones - diet and/or shockwave therapy.
If it's a parasite - surgery is highly possible.
Summary
If you see the symptoms go to the vet. A dog can survive with only on kidney but the sooner the treatment, the higher chance of survival.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.