Pyelonephritis

Symptoms of pyelonephritis in dogs

Symptoms of pyelonephritis in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Some of the most common signs are:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• weight loss
• lethargy
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent or painful urination
• Back pain or abdominal pain
• Dehydration

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and start appropriate treatment.

Causes of pyelonephritis in dogs

The most common cause of pyelonephritis in dogs is an ascending urinary tract infection that reaches the kidneys. This can be favored by various factors, such as:

• An existing cystitis or urinary tract infection
• An injury or obstruction of the urinary tract
• A weakening of the immune system due to other illnesses or medication
• An anatomical anomaly of the urinary tract or kidneys
• Diabetes mellitus or Cushing's syndrome, which make the urine more sugary and promote bacterial growth

The most common bacteria that cause pyelonephritis in dogs are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae. These bacteria can also be transmitted from other infected animals or humans.

Treatment options for pyelonephritis in dogs

The treatment of pyelonephritis in dogs depends on the severity of the disease and the general condition of the dog. In most cases, antibiotic therapy is prescribed, which should last at least four to six weeks. The antibiotics are selected after a urine culture to determine the sensitivity of the bacteria. Sometimes it may be necessary to administer the antibiotics intravenously if the dog is very ill or has problems taking the medication orally.

In addition to antibiotics, the vet may also prescribe other medications to relieve pain, reduce fever, reduce inflammation and increase fluid intake. The dog should also drink plenty of water and be given a balanced diet to support its kidney function.

In rare cases, surgery may be required to repair an injury or obstruction to the urinary tract or to remove a severely damaged kidney.

Prevention of pyelonephritis in dogs

To reduce the risk of pyelonephritis in your dog, you should take some preventative measures, such as

• Keep your dog's genital area clean and dry
• Allow your dog to urinate regularly and avoid confining him for long periods of time
• Give your dog fresh water and avoid stagnant water
• Feed your dog high-quality food and avoid sugary foods
• Have your dog regularly examined and vaccinated by the vet
• Treat any bladder infection or urinary tract infection as soon as possible