Pyelonephritis in Dogs

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Pyelonephritis in Dogs

By: Dr. Bari Spielman

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Section: Overview

Pyelonephritis is an inflammation of the kidney. We generally refer to pyelonephritis as a bacterial infection of upper urinary tract including any part of the kidney.

General Causes

Ascending urinary tract infections (originating from the lower urinary tract) caused by bacteria

Hematogenous (from the bloodstream) seeding of infection is much less common

What to Watch For

Excessive drinking and urinating

Abdominal or back pain

Painful urination

Frequent urination

Straining to urinate

Bloody urinations

Malodorous urinations

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Lethargy

Loss of appetite

Diagnosis

Baseline tests to include a complete blood count, biochemical profile, and urinalysis are recommended in all patients. Although often within normal limits, there may be changes consistent with kidney failure or urinary tract infection.

Additional tests may include:

A bacterial urine culture to check for associated infection

Abdominal radiographs (X-rays) to rule out calculi (stones) and other diseases that might mimic pyelonephritis

Abdominal ultrasound to visualize the urinary tract (in particular, the renal pelvises) and other abdominal structures

Excretory urography (a dye study of the upper urinary tract including the kidneys and ureters)

Treatment

It is most important to determine whether the patient's condition warrants admission to the hospital for treatment or treatment at home as an outpatient. Treatment may include:

Dietary modification in those patients with concurrent renal (kidney) failure or urinary calculi

Antibiotic treatment, based on urine culture and sensitivity

Fluid therapy

Home Care

Administer all medication and diet as directed by your veterinarian. Return for follow up as recommended and notify your veterinarian if any change is noted in your pet's condition.

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