Nephropyelitis, also known as pyelonephritis, is an inflammation of your dog’s kidney or kidneys.

Symptoms of nephropyelitis include fever, abdominal pain, the formation of kidney stones, frequent urinary tract infections, excessive thirst and excessive urination.

Nephropyelitis is the result of an infection. The infection often starts in another part of the urinary tract before the kidney becomes infected.  Cases range from mild to severe.  Severe cases may lead to kidney failure and infection of the blood stream which may be fatal./p>

A physical examination with blood work, urinalysis, ultrasound and x-rays are required to diagnose nephropyelitis. Further testing including a biopsy of the kidney and bacterial cultures may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and help dictate the best treatment method.

Nephropyelitis is generally treated with the use of antibiotics, dietary guidelines and fluid therapy. Rare cases may require surgery.

In some cases, there is no way to prevent nephropyelitis. However, promptly treating urinary tract infections may help prevent the development of nephropyelitis.

No, you cannot contract nephropyelitis from your dog.