One of the most common urinary tract conditions that dogs can experience is bladder infections. While they can be very uncomfortable for your furry friend, there are treatment options to help them feel better quickly. Today, our Clinton Township vets share some of the symptoms of bladder infections in dogs and how this condition can be treated to help make your pup comfortable again.
The Causes of Bladder Infections in Dogs
Bladder infections in dogs are most commonly diagnosed in female dogs compared to males but are known to develop in any dog regardless of age, size or breed. Some of the most common symptoms associated with bladder infections are:
- Crystals
- Bacteria
- Diseases
- Diabetes
- Medications
The Symptoms of Bladder Infections in Dogs
The number one sign of a bladder infection in dogs is either an increase in frequency at which your dog needs to urinate, while only being a small amount, of blood in the urine and/or pain when attempting to urinate. The signs of a bladder infection in dogs may include:
- Straining to urinate
- Increased frequency of urination
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Reduced quantity of urine
- Accidents inside your home
- Whimpering while urinating
- Licking the genital area
- Fever
- Increased thirst
- Lack of energy
If you notice any of the signs of a bladder infection, you should contact your vet right away. Bladder issues in dogs can cause a number of symptoms that can be very painful as well as complications if left untreated. That said, when caught and treated early these infections can often be cleared up quickly and easily. So the sooner you can get your pooch to the vet for an examination, the better.
The Treatment Options For Bladder Infection in Dogs
If your dog is showing any of the symptoms of bladder infections in dogs that are listed above, you should visit your vet for a diagnosis.
Once your dog has been diagnosed with a bladder infection, your vet will offer treatment options to help get your pup feeling better as quickly as possible. Antibiotics are the number one treatment for bladder infections in dogs, although in some cases your vet may also recommend anti-inflammatory medications or painkillers depending on the severity and underlying cause of your pup's infection.
While there have been known cases of bladder infections going away on their own, this is rare and all bladder infections should be treated properly to avoid complications. It is also the case that, since our canine companions are unable to tell us how they are feeling it is best to have any symptoms of illness checked out by your vet. Left untreated your pup's bladder infection could become much more severe and lead to complications.
It's also important to note that your dog's bladder infection symptoms could be caused by a more serious underlying condition that needs veterinary care. When it comes to the health of your dog, you should never take any chances.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.