Dog owners know all too well the struggles of seeing their dog in pain. And that is why it is so important to look out for signs of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in our dogs.
UTI refers to the infection of the urinary tract and is a common occurrence in dogs -- about 14% of dogs will experience a UTI in their lifetimes. Thankfully, UTIs are relatively easy for dog owners to spot. This means that the quicker it is recognised, the quicker it can be treated and the quicker our dogs can return to their former state of comfort.
How do I tell if my dog has a UTI?
Some of the symptoms of UTI in dogs include straining during urination, inability to control the bladder, excessive licking of genitals, dripping urine and fever. One of the more tell-tale signs to look out for, however, is bloody urine. In this case, your dog has likely contracted a UTI. The dog's urine would also have a fishy odour.
What causes UTIs?
Generally, UTIs are caused by bacterial infections, such as E.coli. Did you know? Female dogs are more likely to get a UTI as their urethras are shorter, making it easier for bacteria to access the bladder.
But that doesn't mean that male dogs are immune; Other less common causes of UTI include kidney disease, prostate disease, cancer, diabetes and bladder inflammation.
How is a UTI treated?
If you suspect that your pup has a case of UTI, do take a trip to the veterinarian. The veterinarian will usually conduct a urinalysis to determine the exact cause of the UTI. Following this, a set of antibiotics will be prescribed. In more severe but less common cases, the veterinarian might even suggest surgery to remove any bladder stones or tumours.
But as the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure! To prevent your furry friends from contracting a UTI, do ensure that your dog has a constant supply of fresh, clean water. In addition, make sure that your dog is let out frequently enough to do its business! An extra precaution to take is also to use antibacterial wipes (sold at pet stores) to ensure that your dog's genital area is clean and safe from harmful bacteria.
While "bloody urine" and "bacteria infections" might sound alarming, fear not: UTIs are usually not serious and can be treated with proper care and advice from your veterinarian. In rare cases, however, UTIs may lead to damage to the kidney. It is thus always a wise choice to consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog's health in the long run.
Written by: Erin
