During a routine six-month health check at Littlecroft Vets, Callie, a three-and-a-half-year-old rescue cat, was found to have a large lump in her abdomen. The discovery, made by the vet, led to further blood tests and an ultrasound, revealing a severe infection that had destroyed one of her kidneys.
Callie had developed pyonephrosis, a serious complication of the kidney infection pyelonephritis. Kidney infections in cats can cause symptoms such as fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, and changes in urination. If left untreated, these infections can lead to kidney failure, which can be fatal.
Though Callie had been off-color for a few weeks, she had seemed to improve before her visit to Littlecroft Vets in Little Sutton for her regular health check, where the lump was discovered by the vet.
Vet Sarah Roberts performed surgery to remove the infected kidney, noting that it was only the fifth time in her 38-year career that she had carried out such a delicate operation. She explained, “It was the most badly damaged kidney I have ever seen. The whole kidney was destroyed, and all that remained was a large abscess inside the kidney capsule. There was a real risk of peritonitis if it had leaked, which could have been fatal. It could have spread to other abdominal organs and was likely painful.”
Fortunately, Callie’s other kidney remained healthy, and she has since made a full recovery. “She’s eating well and gaining weight,” Roberts added. “This type of issue isn’t commonly detected during a routine health check, but kidney enlargement can often be felt in cats. These check-ups often uncover issues that owners might not notice, which is why they are always valuable.”
Callie’s owner, Yvonne Baker, expressed her gratitude to Littlecroft Vets for their prompt care. “Callie wasn’t acting like herself when it was time for her health check—she was lethargic, less active, and not eating properly,” Baker said. “When the vet felt her stomach and noticed a lump about the size of a tangerine, they immediately scheduled a scan. It was then we discovered the kidney infection.”
After being treated with antibiotics and pain relief, Callie returned for a follow-up two weeks later, but the lump persisted and required further investigation. The subsequent examination revealed that her kidney was no longer functioning, and surgery was deemed necessary to remove it. “The team at Littlecroft was absolutely wonderful, especially Sarah, who kept me informed throughout the process,” Baker added. “Callie has since recovered and is back to her usual self, now even more affectionate—it’s as if she’s showing appreciation for the care she received.”
Adam Webster, the clinic’s clinical director, emphasized the rarity of pyelonephritis in cats, stating, “In my 14 years as a vet, I’ve only encountered this condition twice. While it’s uncommon, Callie’s case highlights the importance of regular health checks, even when pets seem well. Without prompt treatment, her kidney infection could have been fatal.”
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