Chronic Kidney Disease in Pets: What Every Owner Needs to Know About Infections

by Jon Scaccia October 3, 2024

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a common and serious health issue for dogs and cats, impacting their overall health and quality of life. In recent years, researchers have turned their attention to a specific concern: infections. Just like in humans, pets with CKD are at a higher risk for various infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can potentially lead to more severe complications like sepsis. A new study sheds light on the prevalence of these infections in our furry companions, offering valuable insights for pet owners on how to manage CKD and protect their pets from dangerous infections.

What Did the Study Explore?

The research, which focused on dogs and cats with diagnosed CKD, aimed to understand how often bacteremia (the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream), bacteriuria (bacteria in the urine), and the more dangerous bacteriuria-related bacteremia (where bacteria move from the urine to the bloodstream) occur in pets with CKD.

In total, the study looked at 47 dogs and 41 cats with CKD, analyzing their blood and urine to detect infections. What the researchers found was both surprising and reassuring. Only a small number of pets—two dogs and one cat—showed signs of bacteremia. On the other hand, a higher number of pets, around 15-17%, had bacteriuria. Importantly, only one dog in the study developed urosepsis, where the bacteria in the urine traveled to the bloodstream, leading to a more severe infection.

Why Are These Findings Important for Pet Owners?

You might be wondering why this matters for your pet. CKD is a long-term condition that many dogs and cats face as they age. It’s known to weaken the immune system, making pets more susceptible to infections. However, the good news from this study is that while infections like bacteriuria are common, the more severe outcome of bacteremia or urosepsis is relatively rare.

For pet owners, this means two things: first, it’s essential to keep an eye out for signs of infection, especially urinary issues. But second, it also means that not every instance of bacteria in the urine requires aggressive treatment, such as antibiotics.

What Are the Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

If your pet has CKD, it’s crucial to watch for signs that may indicate a UTI or other infection. Symptoms include:

• Straining or discomfort while urinating
• Increased frequency of urination
• Blood in the urine
• Lethargy or reduced energy
• Loss of appetite

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to visit your vet. Early detection and treatment of UTIs can help prevent more serious infections from developing.

What Can Pet Owners Do to Manage CKD and Prevent Infections?

Managing CKD requires a holistic approach that includes diet, hydration, and regular veterinary check-ups. Here are some practical tips for keeping your pet healthy if they’ve been diagnosed with CKD:

1. Hydration Is Key: Pets with CKD often have trouble concentrating their urine, which means they can become dehydrated easily. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water, and consider offering wet food, which can increase their fluid intake.

2. Regular Check-Ups: Routine vet visits are critical for monitoring your pet’s kidney function and catching infections early. Urinalysis and blood work are standard tests that can help detect CKD-related complications before they become severe.

3. Manage Diet Carefully: Diet plays a significant role in managing CKD. Your vet may recommend a kidney-friendly diet that’s lower in protein and phosphorus to reduce the strain on your pet’s kidneys.

4. Don’t Overuse Antibiotics: If your pet is diagnosed with bacteriuria but isn’t showing symptoms of a UTI, your vet may recommend monitoring rather than immediate treatment. Overuse of antibiotics can contribute to antibiotic resistance, which is a growing concern in both human and veterinary medicine.

What About Sepsis? Should I Be Worried?

While sepsis is a severe condition, the study’s results show that it is relatively rare in pets with CKD. However, it’s still essential to be vigilant. If your pet’s infection does spread to the bloodstream, they may exhibit signs of sepsis, which include:

• Extreme lethargy or weakness
• Fever or hypothermia
• Rapid heart rate
• Rapid breathing

If you notice these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately. Early intervention is critical to preventing life-threatening complications.

Looking Forward: The Importance of Research in Pet Health

This study is just one step in understanding how CKD affects pets and the risks they face. While the findings are reassuring in some respects, they also highlight the need for more research. Understanding when to treat bacteriuria and how to prevent bacteremia can help veterinarians make better decisions for our pets’ long-term health.

For pet owners, the takeaway is clear: stay informed, work closely with your veterinarian, and monitor your pet’s health. With the right care and attention, pets with CKD can live happy, comfortable lives.

Join the Conversation

Does your pet have CKD, or have you dealt with recurring infections in your pet? What steps have you taken to manage their condition? Share your experiences in the comments below or join the conversation on social media using #PetHealthCKD!