Which body cavity contains the kidneys?

The kidneys are located in the abdominal cavity, specifically toward the back of this space. This positioning allows them to be protected by the rib cage to some extent while also being well-situated for their roles in filtering blood and regulating fluid balance in the body. The abdominal cavity houses several vital organs related to digestion, excretion, and reproduction, and within it, the kidneys are classified as retroperitoneal organs, meaning they are situated behind the peritoneum, which is a membrane lining the abdominal cavity. Understanding this anatomical positioning is essential for recognizing the implications of abdominal injuries and conditions affecting the kidneys. Other cavities, such as the cranial, spinal, and thoracic, do not contain the kidneys, as they house the brain, spinal cord, and heart/lungs, respectively.