Kidney infections can be fatal for dogs if they do not receive immediate care. Today, our Austin vets discuss the causes, signs, and treatment of kidney infections in dogs.
Causes of Kidney Infections in Dogs
Kidney infections in dogs can be caused by many different issues but are commonly due to bacterial urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or parasites.
Left untreated, kidney infections can lead to kidney failure and in severe cases, death. If you suspect your dog has a kidney infection and shows any of the symptoms go see the vet.
Signs of a Kidney Infection in Dogs
A dog suffering from a kidney infection may display the following symptoms:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Pain in the side or abdomen
- Poor appetite
- Foul-smelling urine
- Excessive urination or difficulty urinating
- Excessive thirst
- Blood in urine or discolored urine
Treating Canine Kidney Infections
The Treatment of the infection will depend on the cause of the infection. Your veterinarian will need to run some diagnostic tests, often involving a urinalysis.
If kidney stones are present, your vet will likely try to dissolve them via dietary changes or a shock wave therapy technique that will break them apart and allow them to pass through the urine.
If your dog has worms, your vet may suggest surgically removing them. However, if damage to the kidney is too extensive, the entire kidney may require removal.
Your dog can survive and live a normal life with only one functioning kidney, but you’ll still need to keep an eye on your dog. Once a kidney has been infected, it’s more likely that a kidney infection will return later on.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.