Canine Kidney Infections

By Lynn Peterson

Instructions

The Facts

Step 1:
In dogs, the kidneys function as a filter for toxins in the animal's body. An infection of the kidneys can slow the elimination of toxins, which can lead to more serious kidney diseases.

Causes

Step 1:
Causes of kidney infections in canines include not drinking enough water, an obstruction that causes a change in the flow of urine out of the body or a compromised immune system that impedes the processing of bacteria.

Symptoms

Step 1:
Kidney infection symptoms often do not appear until the infection has progressed. Dogs may strain to urinate, show signs of pain upon urination or pass blood in their urine. Weight loss, a lack of appetite or a decrease in activity levels could also indicate kidney infection.

Identification

Step 1:
A veterinarian can analyze a urine sample from the dog to determine if a kidney infection is present.

Treatment

Step 1:
Antibiotics may be prescribed and given by mouth to clear up the infection. Fresh water should be kept available to encourage the dog to "flush out" harmful bacteria from its system.

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