Like humans, dogs are also vulnerable to lower urinary tract conditions, like infections or diseases of the urethra, bladder, and prostate. Unfortunately, urinary tract symptoms may also be associated with bladder stones or cancer. Conditions like this can make your companion lethargic or unable to hold their urine. If humans feel painful sensations when experiencing UTI, so do our pets.
So if you suspect your dog has a urinary tract infection, we’ve gathered major symptoms you should look out for so you can take appropriate actions proactively.
Symptoms of Dog UTI
Sometimes it’s difficult to know whether your dog is in pain, as sometimes they don’t show any signs. However, some symptoms can help determine if your pet has urinary tract problems.
Below are five common signs of dog UTI you should know about:
1. Straining When Urinating
Does your pet whine or strain in pain when urinating? If it appears that they’re struggling or whimpering when they urinate, UTI is likely the culprit. Take your companion to the nearest veterinary pharmacy to diagnose and treat their condition.
2. Frequent Urination
Excessive urination in dogs is one of the earliest indicators of urinary tract infection. Increased urination may stem from drinking more water but may also indicate underlying conditions. If you notice you’re opening the door more frequently to let your dog out so they can urinate, UTI might be the cause.
Although older canines are often affected by this condition, younger pups can also be susceptible, with females being more vulnerable than males. Aside from being consistent with your young pet’s kitten vaccinations and other preventative treatments, it’s also important to monitor signs of common conditions like UTIs. Taking your pet to a puppy vet upon seeing suspicious signs can help lengthen their lifespan and improve their overall quality of life.
3. Bloody Urine
Blood is among the most alarming signs of dog UTI. So if you see blood in your pet’s urine, contact the vet immediately. Although this is a sign of UTI, it may also point to the following conditions:
- Poisoning
- Cancer
- Trauma
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract stones
Regardless of the condition, bloody urine is not something you should ignore, especially if your dog is in its golden years. See a geriatric veterinarian right away to examine your pet’s conditions and treat them right away. You may browse their website to see their geriatric vet services.
4. Increased Thirst
If it’s summertime, it may be hard to tell if your pet is drinking too much water. But if you’re filling their water bowl more often than usual, this is when you should be suspicious that something is not right. UTI might be the root cause of your dog’s excessive thirst.
5. Changes in Urination Habits
As pet parents, we are well aware of our dog’s urination habits and the spots where they usually do their business. This attention to detail is more than just showing our love for our pets, as it can also help the vet diagnose a condition before it worsens. Changes in a dog’s elimination habits may seem like a behavioral issue, but they could also be a sign of serious health conditions such as UTIs.
Final Words
If you spot signs of UTI in your pet, don’t wait until it worsens. Whether your pet’s symptoms are just a UTI, a minor, or a severe condition, it’s essential to find out so you can act promptly. See a reputable vet immediately to attend to your pet’s situation and get them back to full health.
