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Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common problem in dogs, especially females and un-neutered males. It is caused by bacteria that travels up the urethra (tubes that carry urine from bladder to outside the body) into the bladder (a sterile area). When the urethra is inflammed, it reduces in size and makes urination painful and difficult.
Symptoms of dog urinary tract infection
Dogs with urinary tract infection may display some of the following symptoms:
- frequent urination
- straining or difficulty in urinating
- urinate in inappropriate areas
- blood in urine
- weight loss
- loss of appetite
- smelly urine
Diagnosis of UTI
Initially, the vet will perform a physical examination of the abdomen to assess the bladder and obtain a full medical history by asking questions about your dog's diet, water intake, urine, appetite and so forth.
Urinalysis is a laboratory test to evaluate the PH, amount of protein, presence of red and white blood cells, and other abnormal substances in the urine sample. Alkaline urine (high PH) and excessive white blood cells and protein in the urine may indicate UTI. A visual examination of the urine specimen is also carried out to find crystals, bacteria or cells.
The urine sample should be collected by passing a small tube into the bladder (cathether method) or inserting a needle directly into the bladder (cystocentesis method) to minimise contamination.
A urine culture is performed to confirm the existence and type of bacteria that causes urinary tract infection. The correct antibiotic can be prescribed when the bacteria type is known. This is a crucial and accurate test when urinary tract infection is suspected in your dog.
A simple urinary tract infection in dogs can be treated with antibiotics for 2 weeks.
Be sure to provide plenty of fresh drinking water for your dog. Feed cranberry juice to your dog as it is effective for preventing and treating UTI. Bring your dog for regular walks as they can help to increase the frequency of urination. Make sure your dog has access to its potty area to prevent it from holding its urine for too long.
Unlike human beings, dogs rarely show visible signs of urinary tract infection. As the owner, you have to observe for changes in urinary habits. If you notice anything unusual, consult your vet for proper diagnosis. Delaying treatment for UTI can lead to kidney failure and bacteria infection to spread to prostate and other organs of the body.
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