Effective Treatments for Canine Nephritis: A Comprehens

Section 1: Causes of Canine Nephritis

Canine nephritis, or kidney inflammation, is primarily linked to the dog's immune system. When antigens and antibodies in the bloodstream adhere to the glomeruli, the kidney's filtering units, they can trigger a reaction. This reaction leads to damage of the glomerular basement membrane, resulting in inflammation.

Bacterial infections, particularly those caused by pyogenic bacteria, such as abscesses on the skin.

Parasitic infections, like those caused by toxoplasma or heartworms.

Metastasis from malignant tumors affecting the kidneys.

Some infectious diseases, such as canine infectious hepatitis, parvovirus, tuberculosis, and leptospirosis.

Toxic factors, including endogenous toxins, sepsis, and bacteremia.

Section 2: Diagnostic Points for Canine Nephritis

1. Acute Nephritis

Acute nephritis is characterized by a decrease in urine output, increased urine specific gravity, and elevated levels of protein in the urine. The urine sediment may show hyaline casts, and sometimes epithelial casts, scattered red blood cells, white blood cells, and pathogens. Affected dogs may exhibit a depressed mood, fever, decreased appetite, and vomiting. The kidneys may be sensitive to touch, with swelling in the renal area. Dogs may be reluctant to move, standing with an arched back, pulling their limbs under their abdomen. They may walk with a stiff gait and take small steps. Despite frequent urination, the urine output is low. Some dogs may present with hematuria or anuria.

In dogs with a longer course of the disease, there may be circulatory disturbances, generalized venous congestion, and edema in the eyelids, lower abdomen, and extremities. Dogs may show significant signs of ascites. Dogs with uremia may experience difficulty breathing, muscle spasms, confusion, decreased body temperature, weakness, or even coma.

2. Chronic Nephritis

Chronic glomerulonephritis progresses slowly and has mild clinical symptoms. Dogs may gradually lose weight, become more thirsty, and exhibit polyuria, which can be up to twice their normal amount. Proteinuria is also evident. As the disease progresses, edema, uremia, oliguria, and systemic failure may occur, along with proteinuria. As a chronic condition, nephritis may recur, and dogs may experience symptoms such as weight loss and anemia during episodes.

Pet doctors' tip: For more information about canine nephritis, you can read "What is Canine Glomerulonephritis" to learn more.