Cystitis in a dog, its signs, treatment and prevention
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. Among dogs, it is a common urological disease, the characteristic sign of which is frequent urges to the toilet. How cystitis occurs in dogs, how to treat bladder inflammation, and whether it can be prevented – about this below.
Causes of bladder inflammation
In 70% of cases, the cause of cystitis in dogs is bacterial infections. The causative agents may be chlamydia, mycoplasmas, E. coli, etc. Bacterial infections often develop with poor hygiene, long-term use of antibiotics and a weak immune system.
Other causes of cystitis in dogs:
- Overcooling. An autumn walk in the rain, sleeping on a cold floor, swimming in a chilly body of water can all lead to hypothermia and the development of an inflammatory process.
- Complications after genitourinary diseases. Cystitis often develops against the background of urolithiasis, inflammation of the urethra, kidney inflammation, etc.
- Infectious diseases. Cystitis often occurs with parasitic diseases localized in the urinary bladder or other organs of the genitourinary system of the animal (e.g. trichomoniasis).
- Mechanical damage to the genitourinary organs, including the bladder. Possible causes include serious trauma, which often occurs from bumps, falls from heights, and traffic accidents.
- Intoxication (poisoning). One cause of bladder inflammation is poisoning your dog with household chemicals, poisons (such as chemicals) and medications.
- A metabolic disorder. Its frequent causes include improper diet, failure to drink, etc. This can lead to the formation of concrements, clogging of the urinary ducts and the development of inflammation.
Additional factors provoking the development of cystitis in animals include frequent stress, negatively affecting the entire body, vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies, frequent overeating and inflammation of any nature (such as gastritis). In bitches, bladder inflammation may be associated with gynecological problems (e.g. vaginitis).
How does cystitis appear in dogs?
The first thing to pay attention to is that the dog urinates frequently (from 4-5 times in 1 hour). False urge to urinate may occur. If you suspect your dog has cystitis, pay attention to the way he urinates. Dogs change their posture by squatting when they urinate to avoid pain.
Symptoms of cystitis in a dog:
- urinary incontinence,
- Pain when urinating (can be detected by the pet’s growling, whimpering),
- an admixture of blood and pus in the urine,
- Increased temperature,
- a pungent, unpleasant odor of urine,
- Stiffness of the abdominal wall,
- Lack of appetite,
- severe thirst,
- lethargy and apathy,
- decreased activity.
Signs of cystitis in dogs appear gradually. In the first stage, it is much more difficult to recognize the problem, because the animal only has more frequent urge to pee, and otherwise her condition remains the same.
Forms of cystitis
Acute. Its main feature is the rapid development of all signs of the inflammatory process, including frequent urge to urinate, intense pain, lack of appetite. The acute form of cystitis requires immediate visit to a veterinary clinic. Delay can lead to severe complications, including the development of purulent cystitis.
Chronic. In this form of bladder inflammation, there are no pronounced symptoms. There is no increased body temperature or intense pain syndrome, states R.Mammadli from Aetapet.com. However, the pet requires supportive therapy and special care aimed at preventing the exacerbation of cystitis.
Diagnosis
Only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis. He will examine the patient and ask the owner a few questions to determine the cause of the disease. This is necessary to prescribe effective treatment.
The specialist will definitely take blood and urine for general and biochemical tests. If necessary, a bacterial examination is prescribed to determine the type of infection that triggered the inflammatory process.
Additionally, the veterinarian prescribes:
- Ultrasonography (ultrasound) of the abdominal area. It is necessary to detect sand or stones in the urinary system, as well as to check the condition of other genital organs.
- Radiographic examination. It shows not only stones, but also neoplasms, which can also provoke an inflammatory process of the bladder and urinary system.
- Cytoscopy. Examination and examination of the inner surface of the bladder. At the same time, this diagnostic method allows for medical manipulation (for example, administration of antiseptic solutions).
Usually, the diagnosis of cystitis in the dog is carried out on the day of contact with the veterinarian. This allows you to quickly identify the inflammatory process, discover the cause of its occurrence and prescribe treatment.
How to cure cystitis in a dog?
Treatment of cystitis can eliminate the cause of the inflammation (such as a bacterial infection), restore urinary function, and relieve the dog’s pain. The course of treatment in the acute form of the disease is 7-10 days, in the chronic form – 14-21 days.
It is based on drug therapy. It includes taking:
- Antibiotics. They are intended to eliminate pathogenic microflora, which provoke inflammation of the bladder.
- Analgesics. They are prescribed when there is intense pain syndrome, which is characteristic of the acute form of cystitis (You can read about OTC painkillers for dogs in an article on aetapet.com).
- Drugs that stop bleeding. They are used if blood clots have been found in the pet’s urine.
- Antispasmodics. They are intended to facilitate the process of urination and are used for all forms of cystitis.
- Anti-inflammatory agents. Provide suppression of the inflammatory process, reduction of body temperature.
- Diuretics. Increase the volume of urine and accelerate the excretion of inflammatory microorganisms.
Do not self-medicate. Only a veterinarian who has examined the pet and obtained the results of laboratory tests (tests) can prescribe medications to treat cystitis in the dog.
Cystitis prevention
To prevent the development of an inflammatory process, try to prevent hypothermia of the animal’s body. For example, during autumn walks small breed dogs should be insulated with special clothing.
Useful recommendations for preventing cystitis:
- Do not neglect deworming to protect the dog from parasitic diseases and cystitis developing on their background (about worms in dogs read here).
- Vaccinate every year to immunize your dog against infections that can cause inflammation.
- Provide a proper and balanced diet for your pet, using ready-made or natural foods.
- If the pet has already had cystitis, don’t forget about regular preventive examinations at the veterinarian.
- If lower urinary tract infections develop, see a specialist in time to prevent complications.
Cystitis in dogs is a common but dangerous disease. If you suspect your pet has an inflamed bladder, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at the vet’s office for a checkup.
