Does My Dog Have a UTI? | SMS Fredrick

Does My Dog Have a UTI?

Does My Dog Have a UTI?

When it comes to our furry friends, their health is just as important as ours, and one common issue that many dog owners encounter is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Like humans, dogs can experience discomfort and complications from UTIs, but understanding how they develop and the signs can help you keep your pet feeling their best. Let’s dive into what exactly a UTI is and how your dog might end up with one.

What is a UTI & How Do Dogs Get Them?

UTI stands for urinary tract infection and is caused by bacteria that are present in the bladder from the urethra. This bacteria likes to grow and colonize the urinary tract, resulting in an infection.

Because a dog’s urinary tract has more accessible access to the outside of their bodies, it’s much easier for bacteria to make its way into your canine’s body. Bacteria is the most common cause of UTIs, especially in female dogs. There are other ways that a dog can get a pesky infection, including diabetes, congenital issues, bladder stones, or prostate issues.

UTI Symptoms in Canines

Humans are also prone to urinary tract infections, so spotting symptoms isn’t challenging. However, some dogs can be asymptomatic, so watch your pet carefully. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your dog, they could be suffering from a UTI.

  • Excessive Drinking
  • Frequent Abnormal Urination
  • Bloody/Cloudy Urination
  • Lack of Appetite
  • Licking Irritated Area
  • Fever
  • Discomfort While Peeing

Diagnosing and Treating Pups with a UTI

Veterinarians commonly use two ways to diagnose a dog with a UTI: Urianalysis and a urine culture. Either will help you narrow down why your pup is struggling with discomfort, but have different ways of doing so.

Urinalysis: This test involves measurements of cells and other debris in your pet’s urine to determine whether or not they are struggling with a UTI.

Urine Culture: This is the only test that can give you a definite yes/no answer about your dog’s condition. Your veterinarian will take a urine sample and send it to a lab to complete a total culture. They will analyze all aspects of the sample and give you a diagnosis based on their findings.

If you suspect your dog has a urinary tract infection, your first step should be to contact your vet. Once you’ve got a diagnosis, it’s important to administer treatments or antibiotics as recommended to stop the spread of infection.

It is also recommended that you provide your dog with a lot of water. This will help them flush bacteria out of their urinary tract. While urination could cause discomfort, the quicker they get rid of bacteria, the better.

Catching a UTI early and getting your dog the proper treatment can make all the difference in their comfort and overall health. By monitoring symptoms and ensuring they stay hydrated, you can help prevent or quickly resolve infections. Always consult your vet for proper diagnosis and care, and with a bit of attention, your pup will be back to their happy, healthy self in no time.