Kidney removal, or nephrectomy, is sometimes necessary when a kidney becomes severely diseased, infected, or cancerous. At Animal Surgical Care of PA, our surgeons perform this complex procedure with precision, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort every step of the way.
Preoperative evaluation includes advanced blood work, urinalysis, and imaging to confirm that the remaining kidney is healthy and capable of maintaining normal function. These diagnostics help us determine the safest surgical plan.
During surgery, the affected kidney and associated blood vessels are carefully isolated and removed. Our surgical team works under strict sterile conditions, using modern anesthetic protocols and continuous monitoring.
Postoperative care focuses on maintaining hydration, monitoring kidney values, and managing pain. Our veterinarians may recommend dietary adjustments and periodic rechecks to support long-term renal health.
Most pets adapt remarkably well to life with a single healthy kidney. With proper management, they can continue to enjoy a normal, active lifestyle.
Animal Surgical Care of PA provides expert kidney surgery for pets throughout Pennsylvania, combining advanced medicine with genuine compassion for every patient.
Kidney Removal (Nephrectomy) FAQs
What is kidney removal (nephrectomy) in pets?
Nephrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing one kidney when it becomes severely diseased, infected, or affected by cancer. The goal is to eliminate the source of illness while allowing the remaining kidney to maintain normal body function.
When is kidney removal recommended for a pet?
Kidney removal may be recommended when a kidney is non-functional, chronically infected, severely damaged, or cancerous. Extensive diagnostic testing helps determine whether surgery is the safest and most effective treatment option.
How do you determine if a pet can live with one kidney?
Before surgery, advanced blood work, urinalysis, and imaging are performed to confirm that the remaining kidney is healthy and capable of supporting normal renal function on its own.
What happens during kidney removal surgery?
During surgery, the affected kidney and its associated blood vessels are carefully isolated and removed under strict sterile conditions. Modern anesthetic protocols and continuous monitoring are used to maintain patient safety throughout the procedure.
What kind of care is needed after nephrectomy?
Postoperative care focuses on hydration, pain management, and monitoring kidney values. Dietary adjustments and periodic rechecks may be recommended to support long-term kidney health.
Can pets live a normal life with one kidney?
Most pets adapt very well to life with a single healthy kidney. With proper medical management and monitoring, many continue to enjoy a normal, active lifestyle.