Common Causes of Lower Urinary Tract Problems in Dogs How to Provide Relief to Your Pets Struggling With UTI

It hurts like hell if you get a bladder or urinary tract infection. An infected dog's urinary tract is just as painful as it is for you. Unfortunately, humans, cats, and dogs are all susceptible to these nasty bacterial infections; approximately one-third of dogs will develop a UTI at some point in their lives. 

A dog's urinary tract infection can cause severe discomfort and even kidney failure. However, these infections are easily treatable with pet medication and some extra care. Learn the signs of a urinary tract infection in dogs and how to treat it quickly so your pet can feel better quickly.

Why Do Dogs Have Urinary Problems?

Bacteria that is already present on the skin or in the feces of a dog is almost always the cause of a urinary tract infection in a dog. In most cases, complications arise after the bacteria have traveled from the genitalia to the urinary tract.

Inflammation of the urinary tract is caused by bacterial irritation (swelling). Bladder stones may also be brought on by certain bacteria.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is possible in any dog, but some breeds are more susceptible to them. Breeds of a certain age and dogs that hold their urine for extended periods of time are particularly at risk. If your dog has any of the following, he or she may be at a higher risk:

Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms To Look Out For

If you know what to look for, you can determine whether or not your dog is experiencing symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Some of the symptoms of a canine urinary tract infection are:

• Urinary incontinence despite the regular need to urinate

• Crying or whining while trying to urinate

• Blood in urine

• Urinating or leaking urine inside the house

• Licking of the genitalia

Urethral Disease Treatment

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs are just as painful as they are in humans, and delaying veterinary care for your pet only makes the pain worse. The kidneys and prostate are at risk if the urinary infection spreads. As much as you'd like to get your dog some over-the-counter medicine right this second, keep in mind that human drugs can be fatal for animals.

Consult your vet if you think your dog has a urinary tract infection. An appointment for testing and examination may be required. You should inquire beforehand if your vet needs a urine sample. In the event that your veterinarian needs to collect urine from your dog sterilely, you should try to hold off on taking him or her in until after the appointment.

UTIs in dogs are typically treated with medicines, but specific antibiotics for dogs prescribed will depend on your dog's symptoms, the severity of his condition, and the most up-to-date veterinary medical guidelines. The vet might recommend pet meds like Clavamox for dogs, which is one of the most popular medications for dog UTIs. You can easily find these at a pet pharmacy but do not give them to your dog without consulting a bet.

Urinary Tract Infection Prevention Strategies

Dog owners may try treating a urinary tract infection with yogurt because it is widely believed that doing so helps maintain microbiome balance in canines. However, the success of this technique varies from dog to dog. Instead of trying a home remedy to prevent or treat UTIs, it is best to get your vet's advice.

You need to be very careful about your dog’s urinary health. Give your dog plenty of clean water to drink in a slow-feeder dog bowl to avoid future UTIs. You should also give your dog plenty of opportunities to go outside and relieve itself throughout the day. You can also take your friend out on a walk with you and keep them close on a retractable dog leash.

Your vet might suggest giving your dog supplements if he or she suffers from recurrent UTIs. The urinary acidity of dogs with chronic UTIs can be reduced with the help of cranberry and vitamin C. However, prior to administering any treatment, it is recommended that you consult with your veterinarian. When certain crystals (calcium oxalates) are a contributing factor to infection, these supplements can make the condition worse.

Multiple UTIs or a persistent infection could be symptoms of a more serious health problem for your dog. If your pet suffers from chronic UTIs, your veterinarian may recommend further testing to determine the underlying cause.