Like people, canines are also susceptible to lower urinary tract conditions, like infections or diseases of the urethra, bladder, and prostate. Unfortunately, urinary tract symptoms might also be connected with bladder stones or cancer. Conditions like this can make your companion lethargic or unable to hold their urine. If human beings feel painful sensations when experiencing UTI, so do our pets.
So if you believe your canine has a urinary tract infection, we’ve collected 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 pet is in pain, as sometimes they do not reveal any signs. However, some symptoms can help determine if your pet has urinary tract problems.
Below are five common indicators of dog UTI you should know about:
1. Increased Thirst
If it’s summertime, it may be hard to tell if your pet is drinking too much water. But if you are filling their water bowl more often than usual, this is when you need to be suspicious that something is not right. UTI might be the root cause of your dog’s excessive thirst.
2. Bloody Urine
Blood is among the most alarming signs of canine UTI. So if you see blood in your pet’s urine, contact the veterinarian immediately. Although this is a sign of UTI, it may also indicate the following conditions:
- Poisoning
- Cancer
- Trauma
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract stones
Despite the condition, bloody urine is not something you should neglect, especially if your dog is in its golden years. See a geriatric veterinarian immediately to examine your pet’s conditions and treat them right away. You may visit their website to learn more about their geriatric care for pets.
3. Frequent Urination
Excessive urination in pets is one of the earliest indicators of urinary tract infection. Increased urination may originate from drinking more water but may also indicate underlying conditions. If you notice you’re opening the door more often to let your dog out so they can urinate, UTI might be the cause.
Although older dogs are often affected by this disease, 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 symptoms of common conditions like UTIs. Taking your pet to a puppy veterinarian upon seeing suspicious signs can help lengthen their life expectancy and improve their overall quality of life. You may find this useful if you want to read more about what puppy vets do.
4. 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 a veterinarian in Doraville, GA, to diagnose and treat their condition.
5. Changes in Urination Habits
As pet parents, we are well aware of our dog’s urination routines 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 determine a condition before it gets worse. Changes in a dog’s elimination habits may look like a behavioral problem, but they could also be a sign of major health conditions such as UTIs.
Final Words
If you notice indicators 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 reliable vet immediately to take care of your pet’s condition and get them back to full health.
