Dogs are susceptible to many different urinary tract problems, including diseases or infections of the bladder, urethra, and prostate.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also point to other issues, such as kidney stones or potential cancers. The friendly vets at Animal Care Center of Castle Pines will treat the symptoms and the disease as a whole, while determining any underlying causes for urinary tract infections in your dog.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Has a UTI?

When it comes to urinary tract infections in dogs, there are several signs and symptoms you should recognize. If you notice your dog exhibiting any of the following symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian at Animal Care Center of Castle Pines right away.

UTI Symptoms in Dogs

• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Straining or whimpering while urinating
• Accidental urinating in the house
• Licking genitalia
• Asking to be let outside to potty more frequently
• Increased urination
• Increased water consumption

In severe cases, you may also see these symptoms:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Weight Loss
• Mood Changes

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs?

Female dogs and dogs with diabetes are more likely to develop urinary tract infections. Senior dogs aged 7 and older are also more susceptible to urinary tract infections. If your dog is prone to developing bladder stones, they are at higher risk for urinary tract inflammation and infection.

Urinary tract infections in dogs can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Bladder infection or inflammation
• Stress
• Trauma
• Prostate Disease
• Stones or crystals in the bladder or urethra
• Cancer

How Does a Veterinarian Diagnose a UTI?

If you suspect your pet may have a urinary tract infection and you take them into the veterinarian's office, there are several things we can do to diagnose the illness. First, we will perform a physical exam of the kidneys and bladder and test the urine through urinalysis. We might also need to collect a urine culture or perform blood work or an ultrasound to make sure there are no further underlying problems.

What Is the Treatment for UTIs in Dogs?

After diagnosing the cause of the problem, your vet will determine your dog's treatment plan based on what's causing the symptoms. Possible treatment methods for urinary tract infections in dogs include:

• Antibiotics
• Dietary changes
• Intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy
• Increase in water intake
• Urinary acidifiers or alkalinizers
• Surgery to remove bladder stones or tumor

Antibiotics are the treatment most commonly used to treat UTIs in dogs. We might also prescribe pain medication because UTIs can be very uncomfortable for your pup. Always make sure to administer the full course of medication, even if the symptoms seem to resolve, in order to prevent re-infection.

UTI Treatment for Dogs in Castle Pines, Colorado

When left untreated, urinary tract infections can be extremely dangerous to your dog's health. If you suspect your dog may have a urinary tract infection, call us as soon as possible so you can save your pet from any unnecessary discomfort or complications. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment at Animal Care Center of Castle Pines.