If you have a dog, Dog Uti Symptoms to Look out For!
The most common symptom of a UTI is an increased frequency of urination.
However, you may also notice your dog straining to urinate or producing only small amounts of urine.
Other symptoms include bloody or cloudy urine and strong-smelling urine.
If your dog is experiencing any symptoms, it needs to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
In some cases, a dog with a UTI may also show discomfort or pain, such as crying when urinating or licking the genital area excessively.
In addition, if your dog is acting unusually lethargic or has lost its appetite, this could also be a sign that something is wrong.
Table of contents
What Is a UTI?
Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) are dogs’ most common infectious diseases.
Though UTIs are more common in female dogs, male dogs are not immune to them.
Symptoms of a UTI may include:
- Frequent urination
- Straining to urinate
- Urinating small amounts
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy urine
- Strong smelling urine
- Licking the genital area excessively
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take them to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
A course of antibiotics is usually necessary to clear up a UTI.
Symptoms of UTI in Dogs
If your dog is frequently squatting to urinate, has cloudy or bloody urine, or is straining to urinate, these may be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Other common symptoms include home accidents, loss of appetite, lethargy, and fever.
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it must be taken to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
Left untreated, UTIs can cause severe kidney damage.
Bloody Urine
One condition that may cause bloody urine is a kidney infection.
This can happen when bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the kidneys.
Symptoms of a kidney infection include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and pain in the lower back or side.
If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s essential to see a vet immediately, as a kidney infection can be life-threatening.
Another condition that may cause bloody urine is bladder cancer.
This is a more serious condition and usually requires treatment from a specialist.
Bladder cancer symptoms include blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, and loss of appetite.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you must immediately visit your vet.
Difficulty Urinating
There are several possible causes of difficult urination, including the following:
- An enlarged prostate gland in male dogs can cause difficulty urinating. This is a common condition in older dogs.
- A blockage in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone or bladder tumor, can cause difficulty urinating.
- A uterine infection (pyometra) in female dogs can cause difficulty urinating. This is a severe condition that requires immediate veterinary care.
- Certain medications, such as steroids, can cause difficulty urinating. Talk to your veterinarian about possible side effects if your dog takes any medications.
If your dog has difficulty urinating, it is crucial to take him to the veterinarian for an exam.
The exact treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the problem.
Changes in Urination Habits
Although a urinary tract infection (UTI) can occur anywhere along your dog’s urinary tract, from the kidneys to the urethra, most infections are found in the bladder.
A UTI is caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the urine.
The bacteria can then travel to the kidneys, causing a more severe infection.
Signs that your dog may have a UTI include increased frequency of urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and discomfort or pain during urination.
Your dog may also have an increased appetite and drink more water than usual.
If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s essential to take him to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.
When UTI Symptoms Are Something Worse
If your dog displays any of the following UTI symptoms, it’s essential to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
A UTI can progress into something much worse if left untreated.
One of the most common UTI symptoms in dogs is difficulty urinating.
If your dog is straining to pee or only dribbling a little bit when they try, this is a sign that something may be wrong.
Other UTI symptoms include bloody or cloudy urine, licking the genital area more than usual, and seeming uncomfortable or grumpy.
If your dog displays any of these symptoms, it’s essential to take them to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
Bladder Cancer
While bladder cancer is uncommon in dogs, it can still be a severe health concern.
Because bladder cancer can cause UTIs and symptoms, it can be tricky to diagnose.
If you think your dog may have a UTI, it’s essential to take them to the vet for a checkup.
There are several different types of bladder cancer, but the most common is transitional cell carcinoma.
This type of cancer starts in the cells that line the inside of the bladder.
Symptoms of bladder cancer can include blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, and increased frequency of urination.
If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to make an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the best possible outcome.
UTI Symptoms? Call Your Veterinarian
You must call your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog may have a UTI.
Even though UTIs are common in dogs, they can still lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
The most common symptom of a UTI in dogs is urinating more frequently than usual.
Other symptoms include straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and pain or discomfort when urinating.
If your dog displays any of these symptoms, it is essential to have them examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
UTIs can be caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra.
This can happen if your dog comes into contact with contaminated water or soil.
Dogs with recurrent UTIs may be more likely to have an underlying problem, such as a congenital defect or blockage in the urinary tract.
Final Thoughts, Dog Uti Symptoms to Lookout For! 💭
In conclusion, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms of a dog UTI to get your pup the treatment they need as soon as possible.
The earlier you catch it, the easier it will be to treat.
Some symptoms to look out for are increased frequency of urination, urinating in small amounts, bloody urine, and discomfort during urination.
If you notice these symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately.
FAQs
Are some dogs predisposed to UTIs?
Each dog’s physiology may make them more or less susceptible to UTIs.
However, some breeds of dogs (such as poodles and schnauzers) are thought to be more prone to UTIs because their urinary tract is relatively short and straight, making it easier for bacteria to travel up the tract and infect the bladder.
Can a dog’s bladder infection go away on its own?
Yes, a dog’s bladder infection can go away on its own.
However, it is essential to seek veterinary care to ensure the infection does not return.
Can puppies get a UTI?
Yes, puppies can get a UTI. A UTI is a urinary tract infection that bacteria can cause.
Puppies are more likely to get a UTI if they have a congenital defect, are not adequately hydrated, or have a weakened immune system.
What Causes Urinary Tract Issues in Dogs?
Many possible causes of urinary tract issues in dogs include infection, stones or crystals in the urine, cancer, and more.
Often, the exact cause can be challenging to determine.
If your dog has urinary problems, it’s essential to work with your veterinarian to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
