Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs: 5 Things You Must Know!

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Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs: 5 Things You Must Know!

A urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs is a bacterial infection that affects the bladder and occasionally the urinary system including the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra. UTIs can bring a lot of discomfort and complications. This blog on Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs: 5 Things You Must Know! helps you learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of UTIs for your furry friend. 

1. Major Causes of Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs 

Infection in the urinary tract of a dog can occur when any harmful bacteria enters the urinary system. Some of the major reasons behind dog urinary infection include:

  • Unhealthy diet: Inadequate intake of nutrients. Add supplements like Supertonic

  • Poor hygiene: Irregular cleaning or grooming, especially around the genital area

  • Exposure to stones: This includes struvite or calcium oxalate stones 

  • High mineral intake: Dog food with high levels of magnesium, phosphate & other minerals 

  • Stress: It makes the dog vulnerable to UTIs. Manage your dog's stress with Calm Pet

2. Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs

If your dog has a UTI, you may notice a range of signs such as:

  • Frequent urination

  • Straining or Struggling to urinate

  • Blood in the urine

  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

  • Reduced quantity of urine

  • Accidental urination inside your home

  • Increased thirst

  • Licking the urinary opening more often than usual

3. Diagnosis of Urinary Infection in Dogs

On suspecting dog UTI symptoms, it is important to consult with a veterinarian immediately to start the treatment as soon as possible. The veterinarian will perform certain diagnostic tests, including: 

  • Complete Urine Analysis: Physical inspection of the appearance, chemical analysis of the components, and a microscopic evaluation of blood cells and bacteria. 

  • Urine Culture Test: It identifies the bacteria that is causing a urinary tract infection. Moreover, it helps to assess kidney function, screening for diabetes, identifying bladder stones, blocked bladder problems, cancer, looking for signs of other organ disease.  

These tests will confirm the abnormalities and specific bacteria that are causing the problem. Once it is confirmed, the doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics and other medications as required.

4. Treatment of Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs

After analysing the reports, your veterinarian will decide on the treatment protocol. It might include the following steps:  

  1. The treatment starts by eliminating the root cause of the problem, be it stones, dietary issues or bacterial infection. Following this step is necessary to help the medicines work and prevent the problem from recurring.    

  2. Antimicrobial Therapy will be given for a minimum of 3 weeks. Pet parents usually stop the medications in a few days as signs start to resolve However, this can be dangerous as it increases the chances of relapse, makes the treatment less effective and the recovery rate of the dog might also decline. 

  3. Supportive Therapy will be given for pain relief. Your doctor will start some painkillers (like NSAIDS), and pH modulators (to maintain the normal pH of urine; 7-7.5)

5. Preventing UTIs in Dogs

While you can’t completely prevent a UTI, following these steps can reduce the risk of infection:

  • Ensure Hydration: Access to clean, fresh water is necessary

  • Maintain Hygiene: Regularly clean your dog’s genital area

  • Frequent Bathroom Breaks: Don’t let your dog hold its urine, practice regular walk time 

  • Balanced Diet: Ensure the intake of all the essential nutrients 

  • Address Underlying Issues: In case of diabetes or kidney disease, consult your vet on UTI prevention tips 

To Wrap Up, 

With early detection and proper treatment for easy management. By seeking prompt veterinary care, you can help in your dog’s recovery and prevent recurrent infections. Regular veterinary check-ups, good hygiene practices, and a healthy lifestyle are key factors in keeping your dog’s urinary system functioning properly. If you think your dog has a UTI, reach out to your veterinarian for advice and treatment options. Your dog’s health and comfort are of utmost importance!