Know the signs of urinary tract and bladder infection

Just like people, dogs can suffer from infections of the urinary tract and bladder. These infections are caused by bacteria in the urethra and the lining of the bladder, and can be quite painful.

If you see any of these signs, talk to your veterinarian:

• Difficulty urinating

• Blood in the urine

• Cloudy urine, with an abnormal odor

• Frequent urination, in small amounts

• Urinary incontinence

Treating a urinary tract or bladder infection right away is important for preventing serious medical complications – like development of bladder stones or spread of the infection to the kidneys or heart. Although any dog could be affected, females and older dogs are more prone to urinary tract and bladder infections.

Don’t worry – urinary tract and bladder infections are easily treated. Your veterinarian will want to perform a complete examination of your dog, as well as take a urine sample for urinalysis. This will help identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and determine which antibiotic will be most effective in treating your dog.

Follow your veterinarian’s prescription instructions to maximize chances for a cure. Do not change or stop treatment without talking to your vet, even if your dog seems better. Once the antibiotic prescription has been finished, be sure to complete all follow-up visits and lab work suggested by your veterinarian. This is important to make sure the infection is gone.

Dogs that have recurring urinary infections may need additional testing, such as blood work, X-rays and/or ultrasound, to check for bladder stones or other reasons for recurrence.

If you ever have any questions or concerns about your dog’s health, talk to your vet.

REFERENCES:

WebMD Website. Bladder Infections in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment. www.pets.webmd.com/dogs/canine-bladder-infection-what-look-how-treat. Accessed September 22, 2011.

PetMD Website. Urinary Tract Infection, Lower (Bacterial) in Dogs. www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/urinary/c_dg_lower_urinary_tract_infection_bacterial. Accessed September 22, 2011.

Lees GE. Lower Urinary Tract Infection. In: Tilley LP, Smith FWK, eds. The 5-Minute Veterinary Consult, Canine and Feline, Second Edition. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2000:902-903.