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Dog Bladder Infection Problems Explained

Dogs > Urinary System > Dog Bladder Infection Problems Explained

also see Bladder Infection in Dogs

also see Bladder Stones Dogs

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also see Treating a Dog Bladder Infection with Antibiotics

also see Causes of Recurring Canine Bladder Infection

also see Testing for Canine Urinary Infection

Dog bladder infection is caused by bacterial infection in the urethra and the lining of the urinary bladder. Bladder infection is related to kidney infection. It's necessary to detect urinary infection at an early stage as it can do damage if left untreated. Bladder stones or crystals are often present with bladder infection. The crystals cause irritation and infection in your pets.

Symptoms of a Dog Bladder Infection

Frequent urination
Painful and difficult urination
Bloody urine
Incontinence or urinating around the house
Weakness
Lethargy
Fever in some cases
Licking of genitalia
Foul smelling urine
Restlessness

Your vet will conduct a few tests to determine the cause of the symptoms. A urine sample will help detect bacteria or abnormalities. Sometimes urine culture and sensitivity tests may be necessary. Some dogs exhibit symptoms of excessive thirst along with the urination, others might stop urinating. Both cases require medical treatment and a correct diagnosis is the first step to prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Dog bladder stones or urinary calculi are a known cause of blood in the urine. Physical exam and abdominal x-rays will confirm the presence of bladder stones. Bladder stones are minerals which are expelled by the body in the urine as crystals. If the crystals don't pass out they can unite and form bladder stones. Bladder stones cause painful urination and make your pet feel like urinating even when he doesn't have to.

Treatment Options for Dog Bladder Stones

Catheterization is a procedure to remove bladder stones and urine by using a catheter or a suction tube.
Surgery or cystotomy is conducted under anesthesia. The bladder will be opened during surgery and the stones and urine are collected. The stones and urine are then sent for analysis. The dog will require hospitalization and a course of antibiotics, post-surgery.
Struvite and ammonium urate are certain bladder stones that can be treated with specially formulated diets. Foods low in magnesium, protein and phosphorous are generally fed to the dog. This special diet can successfully dissolve the stones.

Dog Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Give your dog plenty of fluids.
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is helpful in urinary tract infections.
Clean his water bowl daily and don't allow him to drink contaminated water found outdoors.
Although you should avoid strenuous exercise if your dog has a urinary tract infection, it's essential to walk him outdoors.
Based on the type of urinary infection the vet may prescribe antibiotic medication to treat the infection without surgery.
Avoid feeding your dog foods high in sodium or food that may be poisonous for his body. A balanced diet can change the pH of urine and will benefit your dog.

If your dog suffers from periodic urinary tract infection you must try to supplement his diet with tonics or vitamins like C, B and E, which combat infections. Often the dog's restlessness and incontinence may be misinterpreted as a behavior problem. However, if you detect the infection and provide your dog with prompt treatment, you can avoid serious complications.

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also see Canine Urinary Tract Infection Explained

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