Urinary tract infections in canines are a widespread issue, with statistics indicating that roughly 25% of all dogs will suffer from at least one UTI during their lifetime. Our Los Angeles County veterinary shed light on the underlying causes and symptoms of UTIs in dogs. Possible treatment options.
Causes of Urinalysis dogs (UTI)
Around 27% of our furry friends are susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) during their lifetime, with a substantial proportion of these cases caused by bacterial infections. Nevertheless, various other reasons may lead to the unpleasant symptoms of a UTI in dogs, including:
- Viral infection
- Urinary stones
- Crystals
- bladder inflammation
- Weak bladder
- Fungal infection
- Kidney disease
- Spinal cord disease
- Prostrate disease
- Cancer
Signs That Your Dog May Have a UTI
As a pet parent, it can be heart-wrenching to see your furry friend suffer from the symptoms of a UTI. These infections can cause discomfort for your canine companion and leave you searching for ways to help. If you suspect your dog may have a UTI, keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Accidents in the house
- Dribbling urine
- Loss of bladder control
- Blood in urine
- Signs of pain while urinating
- Licking excessively following urination
Treating Urinalysis for Dogs (UTI)
To ensure your furry friend's health, it's crucial to schedule a visit with the veterinarian if they are exhibiting signs of a UTI. The vet will perform a thorough examination and necessary diagnostic tests to pinpoint the source of your dog's discomfort, leading to an appropriate and effective treatment plan.
Pain Management
- UTIs can be a debilitating experience for your furry friend. To alleviate the discomfort caused by these infections, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or, in severe cases, administer more powerful painkillers through injections.
Antibiotics
- If your furry friend is suffering from a bacterial urinary tract infection, your veterinarian may suggest a course of antibiotics. You can anticipate a noticeable improvement in your pet's condition within just a few days of starting the antibiotics. However, it's crucial to ensure that your dog takes the entire prescription as directed. Abruptly stopping the treatment can result in a relapse of the infection, which could be more challenging to treat in the future.
Treatment for Underlying Conditions
- As a pet owner, it's important to be aware that certain health issues like diabetes or Cushing's disease can result in persistent urinary tract infections in dogs. To effectively address these recurring infections, it's crucial to address the underlying condition. In certain cases, treating the root cause through means such as chemical or surgical castration for prostate disease or medication to slow the growth of bladder tumors can provide relief.
Dietary Modifications
- For canines, a specially crafted dietary regimen aimed at adjusting urine acidity levels and thwarting the formation of stones can assist in alleviating the irritation that often results in urinary tract infections. Additionally, incorporating supplements can inspire your furry friend to drink more water, thereby diluting their urine and providing added protection against UTIs.
Surgery
- Surgery may become necessary if dietary changes fail to eliminate large urinary stones in your dog. Rest assured, dogs generally well-tolerated this procedure and leads to noticeable improvements within just 1 to 2 weeks. In certain situations, the stones may be examined to determine the best ongoing treatment plan for your furry friend.
Urethral Sphincter Medication
- Your veterinarian may recommend medication to manage your dog's incontinence, which has no discernible underlying cause. This medication works by 'tightening' the urethra, thus regulating the release of urine.
Bladder Support Medications & Supplements
- "Enhance your furry friend's gut health with a combination of antioxidant, probiotic, and prebiotic supplements. These supplements aim to boost the population of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut and promote a healthy gut lining. However, before administering any supplements to your pooch, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to avoid any potential drug interactions.
100% Pure Cranberry Juice
- Cranberry juice is a popular remedy for combating urinary tract infections in humans, and it has the potential to provide similar benefits for dogs. The juice is believed to prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the walls of a dog's bladder, allowing it to be swiftly expelled from the system. However, it's crucial to seek the advice of a veterinarian before administering cranberry juice or any other natural treatment to your furry friend.
The Bottom Line
As a loving pet owner, it is crucial to take action if your furry friend is showing signs of a urinary tract infection. These symptoms can indicate a potentially severe underlying condition, and left untreated, a UTI can lead to even more concerning health issues such as kidney disease. Seeking prompt veterinary care is the best way to ensure the well-being of your beloved dog.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. vet.