Pet urinary infections – A guide to signs, risk factors, treatment, and more
Pet urinary infections – A guide to signs, risk factors, treatment, and more
Urinary tract infections are highly common in both people and pets. Because UTIs can affect your pet’s quality of life and may be associated with other conditions that require prompt treatment, it is important to contact Zutilla Pet Clinic in Dalton, Georgia, right away. Dr. Star Gregory can promptly and accurately diagnose your pet, the first step toward an effective treatment plan that relieves your pet’s discomfort and prevents further complications.
What are UTIs?
The urinary tract is made up of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, and prostate (in males). When bacteria enter any of these areas, they can bypass the body’s natural defense mechanisms and cause infection. The term UTI is most commonly used to refer to bladder infections. Other types of infections, such as those affecting the kidneys, are usually referred to as “pyelonephritis.”
What causes UTIs in pets?
Your dog’s or cat’s kidneys make urine, which moves through their ureters and into the bladder, where it is stored until they pee. To function properly, the bladder must expand and contract to fill and empty. As a sterile part of your pet’s body, bacteria are not normally present here. However, when bacteria and other germs enter the bladder, they can multiply and cause infections.
How can I tell if my pet has a bladder infection?
While people with UTIs can say it hurts or burns when they pee, pets can’t use words to express their discomfort and problems when they urinate. You have to watch for other signs, additional ways that they are telling us that something is wrong. These potential signs include:
- Producing only a small amount of urine each time
- Urinating more frequently than usual
- Suddenly having “accidents” in the house and in multiple areas
- Particularly foul-smelling urine
- Excessively licking the genital area
- Presence of blood in urine (under certain circumstances)
Since bladder infections are typically localized, they usually do not cause systemic illness. If infections involve the kidneys, however, your pet may be feverish, lose their appetite, and show telltale changes on blood tests and other lab work.
Are some pets at greater risk of developing UTIs than others?
Yes. Some pets may be more likely to develop these infections if they have a history of bladder stones or urinary/fecal incontinence. When your pet’s immune system is compromised due to certain medical conditions or the medications used to treat them, there is an increased likelihood of developing UTIs, too. Some patients are simply born with an anatomy that makes them more vulnerable to UTIs, such as a hooded vulva.
How do you test for UTIs?
A sample of your pet’s urine may be analyzed to look for signs of infection (bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells). If an infection is present, Dr. Gregory will identify the type of bacteria causing the infection. This information is used to determine the most appropriate medications and treatment plans for your pet. Depending on your pet’s overall health, additional tests may be ordered.
How are UTIs treated?
In many cases, bladder infections resolve quickly with antibiotic therapy. The specific antibiotic prescribed primarily targets the bacteria most likely causing the infection. Dr. Gregory may also prescribe other medications to help with symptoms such as discomfort. To prevent the overuse of antibiotics, veterinarians treat symptomatic dogs – those with signs of UTIs – because the mere presence of bacteria does not always indicate an infection. The overuse of antibiotics can make it harder to treat certain bacterial strains, as they become resistant to these medications.
Preventive care is a cornerstone of Zutilla Pet Clinic. So, Dr. Gregory prioritizes understanding your dog’s or cat’s unique risk factors. With this knowledge in hand, she can address those risks and prevent infections from occurring in the first place. To keep your dog or cat healthy and happy, schedule a wellness exam/checkup today. Call or text our clinic in Dalton, GA, at (706) 686-3653.