Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication during the perioperative period, which is characterized by not only declined kidney function, but also increased risks of postoperative complications, leading to prolonged length of hospitalization stays. Fluid therapy is crucial for the prevention and treatment of AKI during the perioperative period. Either excessive or insufficient fluid supplementation may potentially cause or exacerbate AKI. Both the supraphysiological chloride content in normal saline and hydroxyethyl starch (HES) can potentially increase the risk of AKI. Albumin has not demonstrated significant benefits in the prevention or treatment of AKI. Based on the latest clinical research, this article reviews the definition and risk factors of AKI, as well as the effect of various perioperative fluid management strategies and fluid types on AKI. The objective is to promptly identify patients with a high risk of AKI and to explore the optimal fluid therapy strategies, in order to enhance postoperative patient outcomes.