Bladder infections in dogs are more common than people realise. A bladder infection is most often caused by bacteria that travels up the urethra from external genitalia and into the bladder. Research has shown that bacteria are often introduced from the dog’s own faecal flora or organisms from their own skin.
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Can Dogs Get Bladder Infections
Dr Wendy Brooks says: “The bladder is a sterile area of the body, which means that bacteria do not normally reside there. When bacteria (or any other organisms, for that matter) gain entry and establish growth in the bladder, infection occurs, and symptoms can result.”
A bladder infection will probably be treated with antibiotics by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may collect a sterile sample of urine to be sent to a laboratory to be cultured or do an inhouse urinalysis to determine if harmful bacteria are present. Before giving antibiotics, it is recommended to send a sample for culture to isolate the type of bacteria causing the problem, and then the veterinarian will prescribe an antibiotic that it is sensitive to.
Dr J Bartges says: “A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when there is a breach (either temporary or permanent) in host defence mechanisms and sufficient numbers of a virulent microbe are allowed to adhere, multiply, and persist in a portion of the urinary tract.”
Dogs can get uroliths with a bladder infection, which are more commonly known as bladder stones. Studies have shown that the most common causes of uroliths are specific types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus spp, and dietary factors.
These uroliths can require emergency surgery, particularly in male dogs as it can cause a blockage in the urethra. It is important to have your pet registered with a medical emergency plan such as Petcube Emergency Fund for cases such as these.
Symptoms of Bladder Infection in Dogs
The symptoms you should look out for are:
- Blood tinged or discoloured urine
- Urinating frequently, but producing very small amounts of urine - Painful urination or straining to urinate
- Foul or unusual odour
- Accidents in the home, otherwise known as incontinence
- Licking of genital area incessantly
- On occasion a change in behaviour is noted most likely due to pain
Dr JD Foster says: “Signs of a urinary tract infection in dogs include lethargy, loss of appetite, increased frequency of urination, and straining at urination.”
If you do not work from home a smart camera to keep an eye on your dog is recommended, this way you can monitor them for frequent urination or any other of the other tell-tale signs of a bladder infection.
FAQs
Are there any home remedies I can try?
We highly recommend contacting your local veterinarian, or one of ours if you suspect your dog has a bladder infection. As a pet owner you can increase the amount of accessible water and encourage a higher intake, with this you will need to increase the amount of bathroom breaks as well. A good idea is to supplement your dog’s diet with probiotics to promote his/her overall health.
What will happen if a bladder infection is left untreated?
Some may clear with time and much discomfort; others may develop into much more serious problems such as emergency surgeries due to a bladder stone blocking the urethra.
Why would my veterinarian recommend an ultrasound?
To obtain a sterile urine sample and to examine the bladder to determine if any stones or tumours are present. Not all stones are radiopaque, meaning they won’t show up on an x-ray.
If you see any of the symptoms described above it is recommended to consult a veterinary professional as soon as possible. Your dog’s symptoms could be caused by a more serious underlying condition. When it comes to your pet, it is always best to be cautious.