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A dog
can get a urinary tract
infection if bacteria gets in the urethra or urinary
tract. In some cases, the bacterium travels to the bladder and kidneys,
resulting in more serious health conditions. If detected early, a
urinary tract infection (UTI) can be cleared up with little harm to your
pet. Left untreated, this type of infection can damage a dog's urethra,
lining of the bladder, as well as harm his immune system.
Evaluate
your dog to see if he has any signs of a urinary tract infection so that
early treatment may be administered. A dog urinary tract infection is
not that apparent in its early stages.
Main
Symptoms of Canine UTI: Problems Urinating
Your dog may show both physical and behavioral signs of UTI. However the
main symptoms of this illness are
urinary problems. Review the signs of urinary dysfunction below to
determine if your dog may have an infection.
- Accidents around the
home when already housebroken
- Blood or pus in the
urine
- Cloudy urine or dark
colored urine
- Crystals in the
urine
- Foul smelling urine
- Urinating frequently
in small increments
- Pain or strain
during urination
- Incontinence and
urine trickling
- Increased urination
Behavioral
and Physical Symptoms of a Dog Urinary Tract Infection
Along with changes in urination, a dog with UTI may also show behavioral
and other physical symptoms. When your dog begins to show
uncharacteristic behavior like urinating in unusual places or less
agility, these may be warning signs
of an infection.
Dogs
with prostate cancer may experience similar symptoms as those with UTI.
If your dog is straining to urinate, has blood in his genital area, or
constipated, have him examined to rule out prostate cancer.
Keep an eye on your dog
for the additional warning signs of UTI:
- Decreased energy
levels
- Dehydration
- Licking of the
genital area
- Insatiable thirst
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Presence of a fever
- Tenderness in the
lower stomach region
- Weight
loss
- Vomiting/nausea
Female
Dogs at Higher Risk
Although both genders may contract urinary tract infections, female dogs
are more susceptible to getting them. A female dog's urethra is shorter
and can transmit bacteria more easily to the rest of her body. Watch for
any signs of your female dog excessively licking or scratching at her
vaginal area.
Why
the Signs of UTI May Go Unnoticed
If your dog has to take an anti-inflammatory medication due to an
allergy or another condition, the drugs will shield the warning signs of
UTI. An indication of a urinary tract infection is inflammation of the
urethra and bladder. If a dog is on such a medication, he will not have
the telltale swelling or scratching that most dogs with the infection
experience.
Still Not
Sure if It's a Urinary Tract Infection?
A yearly physical examination along with a blood
test can help you determine if your dog has an infection. If UTI is
suspected, a vet will request a urine sample from your dog, and then send
it to a lab for a urinalysis. The sample is tested for the presence of a
bacterial culture. After that, your vet will suggest a form of treatment
depending on the severity of your dog's symptoms.
Always
consult with your Veterinarian for treatment, questions or before treating
your dog with any medication
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