What are the common causes of glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is often linked to immune dysregulation, infection, or systemic disease, and may occur alongside other organ problems. The exact cause requires evaluation by a vet through blood and urine tests, followed by a discussion of next steps based on the findings.

How does a vet diagnose glomerulonephritis?

Diagnosis typically combines blood chemistry, urinalysis, urine protein measurement, and abdominal ultrasound. A kidney biopsy or advanced imaging may be considered when needed to confirm the pathology and stage of disease.

Can glomerulonephritis be cured or managed?

Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and severity. Some cases can stabilise once the primary cause is controlled, but many require long-term monitoring, dietary management, and medication. Discuss your pet's individual outlook with your vet.

How often should follow-up visits and tests be scheduled?

Follow-up frequency depends on the condition. Acute or unstable cases may need frequent visits (every few days to weeks), while stable patients typically return every 1–3 months or as recommended by the vet for blood, urine, and blood pressure monitoring.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Glomerulonephritis in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Kidney Tests & Care Guide [2025]

Glomerulonephritis is immune-mediated inflammation of the glomeruli, leading to proteinuria and declining kidney function. It may progress to chronic kidney disease. Treatment includes immunosuppression, antihypertensive medications, and a prescription renal diet.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Noticeable rapid breathing or inability to rest calmly
•Sudden fainting or temporary loss of consciousness
•Gums or lips turning pale or bluish

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Significant decrease in alertness or activity level
•Persistent vomiting or notably reduced appetite
•Markedly increased water intake or frequent urination

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Glomerulonephritis often begins with non-specific systemic symptoms that are easy to overlook. This section outlines common signs and the warning signs that require immediate attention.

Lethargy or a noticeable drop in activity level
Repeated vomiting or significantly reduced appetite
Gradual weight loss or noticeable wasting
Noticeably changed urination frequency or urine volume
Increased water intake, drinking more frequently, or excessive thirst
Rapid breathing or worsening breathlessness
Any of the above symptoms that persist or worsen should prompt a veterinary evaluation

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Difficulty breathing or obvious respiratory distress that does not ease with rest
⚠️ Sudden collapse or brief loss of consciousness
⚠️ Pale or purple-tinged gums or lips

02How to Assess Abnormal Signs at Home: Key Observations & When to Go to Emergency

Observing and recording key changes at home helps your vet quickly understand disease progression and focus the examination.

Record your pet's energy level and activity changes daily
Note the frequency, timing, and characteristics of any vomiting
Weigh your pet and track changes week by week
Log urination frequency and estimate any changes in urine volume
Measure and record daily water intake and drinking times
Film any concerning behaviours or symptoms to share with your vet
Arrange a clinic visit or emergency care promptly if signs worsen

03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Condition? Common Tests Explained

Your vet will combine blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging to assess kidney function and structure, with specialist referral or advanced diagnostics if needed.

Complete blood count (CBC)

evaluates overall blood health and kidney-related changes

Blood chemistry panel

measures creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and other kidney function markers

Urinalysis and urine protein quantification

assesses the degree of kidney damage

Abdominal ultrasound

examines kidney size and structural changes

Radiographs (X-rays)

rules out other abdominal or urinary tract issues

Blood pressure measurement

evaluates the impact of hypertension on the kidneys

Kidney biopsy or CT/MRI when needed for pathological diagnosis and disease staging

04Treatment & Home Care After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet & Management Guide

Treatment and monitoring focus on stabilising kidney function, managing complications, and close observation. Long-term management and regular check-ups are essential.

Acute or severe cases may require hospitalisation with intravenous fluid support and close monitoring
Depending on the underlying cause, some patients may receive immunomodulatory therapy or corticosteroids
Long-term management typically includes a prescription renal diet along with fluid and electrolyte control
Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor blood tests, urinalysis, and blood pressure
Keep detailed records and bring all test reports to every vet visit
If there are concerns or the condition is unstable, referral to a nephrology specialist is recommended

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet Quickly Identify the Cause

Note when symptoms first appeared, how they have progressed, and any actions already taken

List all current medications, supplements, and their dosages

Bring any water intake and urination records from the past month if available

Bring any existing blood, urine, or imaging test reports

Have any videos or photos of your pet's symptoms ready to show the vet

Consider calling ahead to book a clinic or specialist that can perform kidney-related diagnostics

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.