Bladder infections can have serious repercussions for dogs. Spotting an infection early can go a long way towards treating the issue before it becomes too serious. In this article, we’ll explore what bladder infections are, how to spot their symptoms, and look at methods of prevention and treatment. Let’s get started …
What Is a Bladder Infection in Dogs?
A bladder infection (cystitis) is a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), often caused by bacteria entering the urethra. Besides bladder and urethra infections, urinary tract infections can also occur in the kidneys and the ureters (tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder).
Dogs generally develop bladder infections when bacteria, such as E. coli, travels up the urethra. There, these bacteria multiply and spread as an infection. Here are some of the most common causes of bladder infections in dogs:
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Bacterial Ascension: Bacteria from the fur, skin, or rectum enter the urethra and travel upward to the bladder.
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Lifestyle and Hygiene: Poor hygiene can also contribute to bacterial ascension. Some behavioral or lifestyle factors can contribute, as well, such as holding urine in for too long or high-fat, poor-quality diets.
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Underlying Diseases: Endocrine diseases, such as Cushing's disease and diabetes, can increase risk of infection significantly.
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Anatomical Issues: Female dogs have a shorter urethra than males, making them more susceptible to infections. Likewise, bacteria in the urine can be trapped by recessed or “sunken” vulvas in females.
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Bladder Stones: Irritation from bladder stones can create an environment that fosters and hides bacteria.
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Tumors: Similar to stones, tumor masses can also foster environments for bacteria that cause infections.
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Weakened Immune System: Dogs with low immunity are generally more prone to infections. This can sometimes be caused by medications, like steroids, or by chemotherapy.
These infections can make urination painful and difficult for your dog, and have long-term effects on your dog’s urinary tract health, including the kidneys and bladder. They can also lower your dog’s overall health and well-being. So, make sure to consult your physician right away if you believe your dog has such an infection.
How to Spot Early Bladder Infection Symptoms in Dogs
Identifying a bladder infection early on can make treatment much easier for you, your vet, and most importantly, your dog. It’s just a matter of keeping a watchful eye on your pet.
Signs of Bladder Infection in Dogs
Here are some common symptoms of a dog urinary infection.
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Straining to urinate
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Pain during urination (dysuria)
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Urinating in small amounts at a time, or dribbling
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Frequent urination (indicating that they can’t get everything out when they go)
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Accidents (also potentially indicating that your dog can’t fully relieve themselves)
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Blood in the urine or genital discharge
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Increased or foul urine odor
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Licking the genital region (commonly resulting in copper coloring on the fur, or salivary staining)
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Inflammation or swelling of the genital region
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Increased thirst
How to Prevent Future Bladder Infections in Dogs
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. As it pertains to urinary health, there are several things you can do to help prevent dog bladder infections:
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Increase Hydration: Hydration is essential to good urinary tract health, so always keep water bowls clean and filled. Other ways to keep your dog hydrated include feeding them wet food, adding water to dry kibble, and giving your pet water-based snacks, such as watermelon (minus the seeds!).
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Plan Ahead: Whether it’s a long hike, walk, or car ride, plan ahead for your dog’s hydration needs by bringing a collapsible bowl and fresh water. Remember, just because you’re away from home, it doesn’t mean your dog should get dehydrated.
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Frequent Potty Breaks: Since one of the main causes of bladder infections is holding in their urine, it’s important to give your dog frequent opportunities to pee. That may mean more frequent walks than you currently give your dog (which they’ll love!).
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Better Hygiene: For long-haired dogs or older dogs who can struggle to bathe themselves, use pet wipes to help clean their genital area. Also, bathe and brush your dog regularly.
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Optimize Their Diet: If your dog’s urine pH is high or they have other potential urinary issues, consult your veterinarian about prescription, nutrient-balanced diets formulated for urinary tract health.
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Natural Supplements: Dog supplements, like the Happy Paws Bladder Supplement for Dogs, are formulated to promote urinary tract health with natural ingredients, like cranberry, kona berry, and marshmallow root.
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Probiotics: Probiotics help to support healthy bacteria levels, which can strengthen the immune system and lessen the chance of infection.
Treatment Options for Bladder Infections in Dogs
First things first, if you believe your dog has a bladder infection or other UTI, get them to the veterinary doctor immediately. Your vet will be able to identify the issue and prescribe a course of treatment.
These can include antibiotics, including Amoxicillin, Clavamox (Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium), and TMS (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole). Make sure to give your dog their prescribed antibiotics for the complete course, as directed by your vet. If you don’t finish your dog’s antibiotic treatment, there’s a good chance you won’t kill all the harmful bacteria.
Dogs will also sometimes receive treatment for pain stemming from their infection. These generally include anti-inflammatories. For chronic or recurring infections, your vet may prescribe long-term, low-dose antibiotics to keep the issue from coming back.
FAQs
What Causes a Bladder Infection in Dogs?
Bladder infections in dogs can be caused by a number of things, including bacteria ascending through the urethra, underlying diseases, anatomical issues that trap urine, blockage from stones or tumors, and a weakened immune system.
Can Bladder Infections in Dogs Go Away on Their Own?
Bladder infections generally do not go away on their own, so it’s important to contact your vet right away if you think your dog has an infection.
When to See a Vet About a Serious Bladder Infection?
If your dog is showing signs of an infection, contact your vet right away for guidance and potential treatment.
How Long Is the Recovery Time for a UTI in Dogs?
Usually, the standard treatment course of antibiotics for a urinary tract infection is 1–2 weeks.
