1. The Renal System

2. Objectives State the structures that make up the renal system
Describe the function of the renal system
Name and describe common disorders associated with the renal system

3. Structures
Includes:
Kidneys
Ureters
Bladder
Urethra
The renal system controls urinary production to rid the body of waste products within the bloodstream

4. Kidneys
Two organs located in the dorsal abdomen on either side of the spine
Produce urine
Reddish brown in color and are ben shaped and smooth
Cows are the only animal species that have lobed kidneys rather than a smooth surface
Each kidney has a renal artery and renal vein that are located in the center of the kidney and allow blood flow through the renal system
20-25% of body’s blood flows through the kidneys

5. Ureters
Center of each kidney is a tube that filters urine out to the bladder
Tube is the ureter
Made of smooth muscle and pushes urine out of kidneys through contractions

6. Urinary Bladder Ureter connects to the urinary bladder
Hollow organ that holds urine by expanding and stretching
Bladder holds large amounts of urine based on the size of the animal
25lb dog has a bladder that can hold about 100ml of urine

7. Urethra Bladder connect to the urethra
Muscular tube that allows urine to flow to the outside of the body for elimination
Males typically have longer and narrower urethra than females
Male animals are more prone to urinary obstructions

8. Common Diseases and Conditions

9. Urinary Incontinence Uncontrolled leaking of urine from the bladder
More frequent in females that are seniors and have been spayed
Commonly occurs during sleeping
It is the inability to control the sphincter muscles within the bladder
Many animals respond to treatment with medication of a natural hormone supplement of estrogen

10. Urinary Blockage Caused by several conditions
One condition is uroliths (bladder stones) that form within the urinary bladder, ureter or urethra and cause an obstruction
Diet is the common source for bladder stone formation
Radiographs can be helpful in diagnosis of the condition and many animals may need surgical removal
Dalmatians have genetic urolith condition
Can’t metabolize uric acid which forms bladder stones