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Urinary tract infections are common in dogs, but there are steps you can take to help prevent them. Here’s how to prevent UTIs in dogs.
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Introduction
UTIs are a common problem in dogs, especially those that are older or have weakened immune systems. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to help prevent your dog from getting a UTI.
What are UTIs?
UTIs are among the most common infections in dogs. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply. The infection can involve the bladder, kidneys, or both. Most UTIs are not serious and can be treated with antibiotics, but some can lead to more serious health problems.
There are several things you can do to prevent UTIs in your dog:
-Keep your dog’s urinary tract clean and free of debris.
-Feed your dog a high quality diet.
-Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water to drink.
-Encourage your dog to urinate often.
-Clean your dog’s genital area after every bowel movement.
-Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups and urine tests.
Causes of UTIs
There are many different causes of UTIs in dogs, but the most common is bacteria that enters the urinary tract through the urethra. This can happen when your dog licks or explores something dirty, like a pile of garbage. The bacteria then multiplies in the warm, moist environment of the urinary tract and causes an infection. Other common causes of UTIs include:
– Bladder stones or crystals
– Tumors
– Kidney disease
– Diabettes
– Allergies
– Anatomical defects
Signs and symptoms of UTIs
There are several signs and symptoms of UTIs in dogs. The most common signs are straining to urinate, bloody or cloudy urine, increased frequency of urination, and discomfort when urinating. If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to take him to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible. Other less common symptoms of a UTI include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. If your dog is showing any of these more severe symptoms, he may need immediate medical attention.
How to prevent UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are fairly common in dogs, particularly those with long, thin intestines that allow easy entry of bacteria. Female dogs are also more prone to UTIs because of their shorter urethras. Symptoms of a UTI include increased frequency of urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and discomfort or pain during urination. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, take him to the vet for a checkup and possible treatment.
There are several things you can do to prevent UTIs in your dog:
-Feed him a high-quality diet that includes plenty of water.
-Make sure he has access to clean water at all times and encourage him to drink regularly throughout the day.
-Keep his living area clean and free of urine and feces so bacteria don’t have a chance to build up.
-Take him for regular vet checkups and cleanings so any problems can be caught early.
Treatment for UTIs
Treating a dog with a UTI requires a two-pronged approach. The first part is treating the infection itself, which will usually involve antibiotics. The second part is addressing whatever underlying condition is causing the UTIs in the first place. That might mean changing your dog’s diet, giving them supplements, or even managing diabetes or another chronic condition.
When to see the vet
If your dog is displaying any of the following symptoms, it’s time to make an appointment with your veterinarian.
-Straining to urinate or only able to produce a few drops
-Crying out in pain while urinating
-Urinating more frequently than normal
-Passing bloody urine
-Licking their genitals more frequently than usual
FAQs
-How can I tell if my dog has a UTI?
-Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting a UTI?
-What are the symptoms of a UTI in dogs?
-How is a UTI treated in dogs?
Further reading
If you’re interested in learning more about how to prevent UTIs in dogs, here are some recommended resources:
-The Dog UTI Bible: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments by Jill Goldman, DVM
-A Dog Owner’s Guide to Urinary Tract Infections by Kimberly Gauthier, MS
-Preventing Bladder Stones and Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs by Jeanne Grady, DVM
References
There are a number of ways to prevent UTIs in dogs, and the best method will vary depending on the individual dog. Some methods include:
-Making sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water at all times, and encouraging them to drink frequently
-Feeding your dog a healthy diet rich in fiber to keep their digestive system functioning properly
-Avoiding letting your dog get too overweight, as excess weight can put pressure on the bladder and increase the risk of UTIs
-Taking your dog for regular walks or runs to keep their muscles toned and their bodies healthy
-Cleaning your dog’s genital area regularly
-Taking your dog to the vet for regular checkups and urinalysis tests to catch any potential problems early
