Have you ever experience UTI before? Anyone who has is familiar with the constant ache and need to visit the washroom right away, only to pass out very little urine.

The treatment for this condition is easy, at least for humans. The same cannot be said for dogs.

Urinary tract infections are common in dogs and often result from entry of bacteria into the urinary tract through the urethra. This mostly occurs when its health is compromised. They are quite uncomfortable for dogs and can even result in health complications and sometimes death if left untreated. UTI’s are treatable if detected early, hence the need to stay informed on the causes, symptoms and treatment options for UTI’s in dogs.

Signs of urinary tract infections in dogs

Dogs suffering from urinary tract infections tend to show difficulties in passing out urine, and this is sometimes painful. On occasion, the urine may contain traces of blood. It may not be easy to detect blood in your pet’s urine unless there is a pink-like stain on the carpet. Breaking house training is also a major tale-tell sign of urinary tract infections. Schedule a visit to the vet if you notice the following signs from your dog:

  • Constant urination
  • Strained urination
  • Crying out every time he urinates
  • Dribbling urine
  • Breaking housetraining
  • Frequent licking of the genitals
  • Accidents in the house
  • Passing out cloudy urine
  • Urine with a bad smell

More serious symptoms of urinary tract infections include:

  • Lethargy
  • Increased tenderness around the genital area
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite

Causes of urinary tract infections in dogs

As previously mention, UTIs are due to bacteria, E. coli, that move up the urethra and occasionally into the bladder when your dog’s health is compromised. Health conditions that can cause buildup of bacteria in the urinary tract include prostate disease, kidney stones, cancer of the bladder, bladder stones, and bladder tumors, abnormalities of the spinal cord, stress, incontinence and congenital problems.

The diagnosis

To get an accurate diagnosis, a vet will examine your dog’s urine for the presence of white blood cells or crystals, which suggest infection or bladder stones respectively. The vet may also opt to perform a urinalysis or culture the urine, to help identify the type of bacteria and hence the UTI that your dog may be suffering from.

Treatment and prevention

Once a vet has the right diagnosis, he will proceed with the treatment. The treatment chosen will depend on the condition your dog is suffering from, as well as the degree of severity. More often than not, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics and/or recommend a specific diet where stones are involved. Probiotics may occasionally be prescribed to prevent recurrence of UTI. Your vet may also treat any underlying health conditions such as diabetes.

Is there is anything you can do to prevent UTI in your dog? Of course. Get them to drink a lot of water and exercise often. Proper diet and proper hygiene practices can help prevent UTI infection. For more information on how to help your dog with UTI, visit a veterinary clinic in Briarcliff Manor, NY today.