Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs are an unpleasant and debilitating health problem. However, early recognition of dog UTI symptoms can nip this issue in the bud!
Let’s find out how to spot if your dog might have a urinary infection, and take a look at what to do to prevent and treat this condition.
Recognizing Dog UTI Symptoms
Not only are UTIs very painful for dogs, but if not treated promptly they can quickly get much worse. Prompt treatment normally results in a much faster recovery time… So as a pet owner, it pays to know the warning signs to look out for.
The key symptoms of a urinary tract infection in dogs include:
- Increased frequency of urination
- Urination in abnormal places, such as in the house or while traveling in the car
- Straining or difficulty during urination
- Signs of pain, such as whining or whimpering, when passing urine
- Changes to the color or smell of your dog’s urine, such as cloudy, bloody, or strong-smelling urine.
While watching your canine buddy pass urine might not be top of your list of fun things to do, it pays to keep an eye on your dog’s toileting habits and output. Any symptoms listed above may indicate a urinary tract infection and veterinary advice should be sought as soon as possible.
How Are Dog UTI Symptoms Treated?
If your veterinarian suspects that a UTI is the cause of your dog’s problems, they will normally conduct tests on a urine sample to help formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
Most UTIs in dogs are treated with a course of antibiotics. Your veterinarian may need to switch to different antibiotics depending on the results of any laboratory tests.
During the initial treatment phase, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve pain and swelling in the urinary tract. This will help your dog pass urine normally until the antibiotics have a chance to do their work.
Top Tips For Preventing UTIs In Dogs
The best way to prevent your dog from getting a UTI is to keep your precious pooch hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, so make sure your dog always has a bowl of clean, fresh water available.
Dogs that have the opportunity to urinate regularly are also less at risk of contracting a UTI. Make sure your dog has regular bathroom breaks or access to a toileting area.
If your dog suffers from regular UTIs, Maven’s vet team can help with more tips to prevent this unpleasant condition. Remember – if you notice any unusual symptoms, it’s always best to get your dog checked out as soon as possible.
Maven Pet focuses on improving the quality of life of our pets with technology, using artificial intelligence (AI) to enable proactive pet care. By accurately collecting and monitoring pet data 24/7 and flagging any irregularities, Maven Pet empowers pet parents and veterinarians to stay ahead of potential health issues, ensuring the well-being and longevity of our beloved companions.
