A dog bladder infection, also known as a urinary tract infection (UTI), is an inflammation of the bladder caused by bacteria. UTIs are one of the most common health problems in dogs, and they can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. Female dogs are more likely to develop UTIs than male dogs, because their urethras are shorter and closer to the ground.
A dog bladder infection, similar to a urinary tract infection in humans, can be extremely uncomfortable for your dog. It’s caused by bacteria getting into the urinary tract and then reproducing until it’s extremely painful. It is very common in dogs because they spend time outdoors and with other dogs. In fact, urinary tract related conditions are among the most common reasons for veterinary visits
Symptoms of a Dog Bladder Infection
There are a number of symptoms that can indicate that your dog has a bladder infection. These symptoms may include:
- Straining or whimpering when urinating
- Urinating more frequently than usual
- Urinating in small amounts
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Accidents in the house
- Licking the genitals excessively
- Other dogs may not exhibit any symptoms whatsoever.
The important thing is that you look for the different symptoms and get your dog to the vet sooner than later.
If the bladder infection continues without treatment, it can lead to a loss of appetite or a loss of energy, as well as vomiting and fever. Your dog’s pain can be relieved significantly when you get treatment early enough. Otherwise it could lead to bigger problems, including kidney failure and other health conditions
Causes of Dog Bladder Infections
There are a number of things that can cause a dog bladder infection, including:
- Bacteria: Bacteria are the most common cause of UTIs. Bacteria can enter the bladder through the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body.
- Crystals: Crystals can form in the urine and irritate the bladder. This can make it difficult for your dog to urinate and can cause pain.
- Anatomy: Female dogs have shorter urethras than male dogs, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder . the bacteria can accumulate in their vaginal area. However, the bacteria can be prevented if they can urinate frequently which is why it’s important to always provide dogs with a readily available supply of water.
- Underlying medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of bladder infections.
- Medications: Some medications can irritate the bladder and make it more susceptible to infection.
Dog Bladder Infection Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose a bladder infection fairly easily.
Physical Examination
This includes checking for tenderness or firmness.
Urine analysis
They will collect a urine sample to check for the bacteria as well as for blood cell counts and even pH levels.
X ray or an ultrasound
If your dog has had countless bladder infections, the vet may also recommend X-rays or an ultrasound to see if there are any other medical issues that are causing the bacteria growth.
Treatment for Dog Bladder Infections
If you think your dog has a bladder infection, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will be able to diagnose the infection and recommend treatment. Treatment for UTIs typically involves antibiotics. In some cases, the vet may also recommend a change in diet or other lifestyle changes.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the most common treatment for dog bladder infections. The type of antibiotic that is prescribed will depend on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. Most UTIs will clear up with a course of antibiotics. However, it is important to give your dog the entire course of antibiotics, even if they start to feel better after a few days. Stopping treatment early can allow the infection to come back.
Pain Medication
In some cases, the vet may also prescribe pain medication to help your dog feel more comfortable. Pain medication can be especially helpful if your dog is straining or whimpering when urinating.
Diet Changes
Your vet may also recommend a change in diet to help prevent UTIs from recurring. This may include feeding your dog a urinary tract health food or adding cranberry supplements to their diet.
Other Lifestyle Changes
There are a number of other lifestyle changes that you can make to help prevent UTIs from recurring. These include:
- Encouraging your dog to urinate frequently: This will help to flush out bacteria from the bladder.
- Wiping your dog’s genitals regularly: This will help to remove bacteria that could cause an infection.
- Making sure your dog drinks plenty of water: This will help to keep the urine diluted and make it less likely for bacteria to grow.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that can help to keep the urinary tract healthy. Some vets may recommend giving your dog probiotics to help prevent UTIs.
Home Remedies
While antibiotics are the main treatment for dog bladder infections, there are a few home remedies that may help to support your dog’s recovery and prevent future UTIs. However, it is important to note that these remedies should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any home remedies.
Here are a few home remedies that may help to support your dog’s recovery from a bladder infection:
1. Cranberry Juice or Cranberry Supplements: Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs) that have been shown to help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder. This can make it more difficult for bacteria to cause an infection. You can give your dog pure cranberry juice, but make sure it is unsweetened and without any added ingredients. You can also give your dog cranberry supplements.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is thought to help acidify the urine, which can make it less hospitable for bacteria. You can add a teaspoon or two of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl.
3. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to boost the immune system and fight off infection. You can give your dog vitamin C supplements or add fresh fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and broccoli, to their diet.
4. Probiotics: Probiotics are live bacteria that can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. This can help to prevent bad bacteria from overgrowing and causing infection. You can give your dog probiotics in the form of supplements or by adding fermented foods, such as yogurt or kefir, to their diet.
5. Increase Water Intake: Encourage your dog to drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. You can add a little low-sodium chicken broth or bone broth to their water to make it more appealing.
6. Keep Genitals Clean: Regularly wipe your dog’s genitals with a clean, damp cloth to remove bacteria that could cause an infection.
7. Consider a Urinary Tract Health Food: Your veterinarian may recommend feeding your dog a urinary tract health food. These foods are specially formulated to support urinary tract health and may help to prevent UTIs.
Remember, home remedies should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any home remedies, and be sure to monitor your dog closely for any signs of worsening symptoms.
It is important to take your dog back to the vet for a recheck after they have finished their course of antibiotics. This will help to make sure that the infection has cleared up completely.
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent dog bladder infections, including:
- Make sure your dog drinks plenty of water: This will help to flush out bacteria from the bladder.
- Feed your dog a high-quality diet: This will help to keep your dog’s urinary tract healthy.
- Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups: This will help to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to UTIs.
- Encourage your dog to urinate frequently: This will help to prevent bacteria from building up in the bladder.
- Wipe your dog’s genitals regularly: This will help to remove bacteria that could cause an infection.
Conclusion
Dog bladder infections are a common health problem, but they are not serious if they are caught and treated early. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent your dog from developing a UTI.
Additional Resources
American Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.avma.org