inflammation which further increases congestion of the kidneys and causes vasoconstriction to become more widespread. Chronic renal failure is usually only seen in mature animals or those who have suffered an acute renal attack. The clinical presentation of chronic renal failure includes lethargy, polyuria, polydipsia, ventral edema, anorexia, unexplained , pica, dehydration, oral ulceration, excessive tartar build-up on the teeth, diarrhea, convulsions, coma and death. The clinical signs and symptoms progressively worsen as more of the renal tissue becomes damaged. Diagnosis of chronic renal failure is made through urinalysis and blood analysis showing azotemia, anemia and . Treatment includes free access to clean water, a reduction of protein, calcium, phosphorous and salt in the diet and the daily administration of oral sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), anabolic steroids and erythropoietin. Euthanasia may be required in individuals with severe renal damage. Prognosis for chronic renal failure is grave if clinical signs and symptoms are apparent. Most individuals can survive with only twenty five percent functional renal tissue, however chronic renal failure is incurable and progressive.
Urinary Tract Infection
Infection of the urinary tract is usually
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The bacteria most commonly found to be responsible for urinary tract infection are E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp. and Cornybacterium spp. Urinary tract infections are usually classified as upper urinary tract infections if the & the are involved or as lower urinary tract infections if the bladder and the urethra are involved. Transmission of bacteria to the urinary tract can either be through infection, where bacteria normally occurring in the distal urethra migrate proximally into the bladder, ureters and the kidneys, or through infection, where haematogenous bacteria enter the kidneys through the glomerulus. causing inflammation, congestion of the renal pelvis, increased mucus production and leukocytosis. Infection may be acute or chronic depending on the infecting agent and the immune status of the horse. Once inside the urinary tract the bacteria attack the urinary Ascending infection of the lower urinary tract is the most common presentation of urinary tract infection. Urinary , urolithiasis, catheterization, paralysis of the bladder, labour, loss
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