Like people, canines are also vulnerable to lower urinary tract conditions, like infections or diseases of the bladder, urethra, 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 agonizing sensations when experiencing UTI, so do our pets.
So if you suspect your canine has a urinary tract infection, we’ve gathered major symptoms you must watch out for so you can take appropriate actions proactively.
Signs of Dog UTI
Sometimes it’s difficult to know whether your dog is in pain, as sometimes they do not exhibit any signs. However, some symptoms can help determine if your pet has urinary tract issues.
Below are five common signs of canine UTI you should know about:
1. Frequent Urination
Excessive urination in dogs is one of the earliest signs of urinary tract infection. Increased urination might stem from drinking more water but may also signify 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 usually 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 vaccinations and other preventive treatments, it’s also essential to monitor indicators of common conditions like UTIs. Taking your pet to a vet for puppies in Doraville, GA, upon seeing suspicious signs can help extend their lifespan and improve their overall quality of life.
2. Increased Thirst
If it’s summertime, it might be hard to tell if your pet is drinking too much water. But if you’re filling their water bowl more frequently than usual, this is when you should be suspicious that something is not right. UTI might be the root cause of your dog’s extreme thirst.
3. 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 closest vet lab center to diagnose and treat their condition.
4. Bloody Urine
Blood is among the most alarming signs of canine UTI. So if you see blood in your pet’s urine, contact the vet immediately. Although this is a sign of UTI, it might also indicate the following conditions:
- Poisoning
- Cancer
- Trauma
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract stones
Regardless of the condition, bloody urine is not something you should neglect, especially if your dog is in its golden years. See a geriatric vet immediately to inspect your pet’s conditions and treat them right away. You may browse their website for more info on their geriatric vet services.
5. Changes in Urination Habits
As pet parents, we are well aware of our dog’s urination habits and the areas where they often 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 aggravates. Changes in a dog’s elimination habits might appear like a behavioral concern, but they could also be a sign of major health conditions such as UTIs.
Final Words
If you observe symptoms of UTI in your pet, do not wait until it worsens. Whether your pet’s symptoms are just a UTI, a minor, or a severe condition, it’s important to find out so you can act promptly. See a reputable veterinarian immediately to attend to your pet’s condition and get them back to full health.
