Pyometra in dogs is a deadly disease that only affects females. According to a 2023 journal article, it affects up to 25% of unspayed canines.
This condition indicates an infection in a dog’s uterus (womb), usually filling with pus. Adult intact bitches commonly develop this disease.
When left untreated, pyometra may turn into a life-threatening condition, causing blood complications, dehydration, kidney failure, and worse, death. As such, vets and animal enthusiasts have voiced their concerns to all pet owners.
‘If it is left too long the infection will become huge and eventually the animal’s body just can’t fight it,’ Charlotte Hailstones, a veterinary nurse, stated. She added that it is important to recognise early signs considering that such disease cannot be easily treated without severe risks.
How Do Dogs Get Pyometra?
The most common cause of pyometra in dogs is bacterial infection. Harmful microbes like Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, and Streptococcus canis are the typical culprits.
This condition occurs in females typically during or immediately after the oestrous cycle. A bitch in season goes through some hormonal imbalances that expose the endometrium (uterus lining) to high concentrations of oestrogen.
Moreover, during dioestrus —the period after the heat cycle—high concentrations of progesterone manifest. The uterus of an unspayed bitch continues to thicken from the release of both progesterone and oestrogen This is when the bacteria can develop and lead to pyometra.
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3 Types of Pyometra in Dogs
1. Open Pyometra
When the cervix is open, this makes the pooch susceptible to infection. This usually leads to blood discharge around the vulva. That being said, it is often mistaken as part of the heat cycle. The dog should immediately receive treatment as it can cause damage to organs, especially the kidneys.
2. Closed Pyometra
The signs are not noticeable because there is no blood discharge. However, this type could worsen in a short period. This may cause your dog’s uterus to continuously expand or lead to kidney failure.
3. Stump Pyometra
This is a rare type but is as dangerous as the aforementioned two types. This occurs unexpectedly in spayed animals. It develops in the tissue remnants left behind during a routine spray and is filled with infected fluid.
What Are the Signs of Pyometra in Dogs?
Early signs of pyometra in dogs to watch out for are lethargy, inappetence, increased thirst, and increased urination. Additionally, further symptoms may vary on the condition of the cervix, whether it is open or not.
When it is an open cervix, symptoms of pyometra include:
- Pus or abnormal discharge
- Anorexia
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Depression
When the cervix is closed, symptoms of pyometra include:
- Listlessness
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
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How Is Canine Pyometra Treated?
The most commonly advised treatment of pyometra is to surgically remove the infected uterus to prevent its rupture. This procedure is known as ovariohysterectomy or spay.
For dog owners who still desire their bitches to be bred, you may ask prescription for appropriate pyometra treatment. This entails hospitalisation, fluids, prostaglandins, and getting the appropriate use and dosage of antibiotics.
However, if it remains unsuccessful after five days, you should consider spaying your pyometra-diagnosed dog. If medical treatment is deemed successful, the bitch should be bred on her next cycle.
Can pyometra in dogs be treated with antibiotics? The use of antibiotics alone will not treat pyometra in dogs. Medical treatment is usually aided with prostaglandin injections to drop the dog’s progesterone production.
The goal is to have a uterus contraction and consequent expulsion of the particular infection from the uterus. You will need a professional to determine the appropriate antiobiotics to treat pyometra in dogs.
How much does it cost to treat a dog with pyometra? It largely depends on the location and the condition of your dog. On the other hand, consider the following in your calculations:
- Drugs
- Diagnostic tests
- Anaesthetic agents
- IV fluids
- Hospitalisation
- Suture materials used
- Follow-up treatment required (in case there is)
How to Prevent Pyometra in Dogs
The best way to prevent the risk of pyometra is to spay your pooch before her first season. Aside from the prevention of pyometra, spaying protects against other reproductive diseases as well.
As early as six months of age, a female canine may undergo the removal of the ovaries and uterus. A routine spay procedure done under general anaesthetic on a healthy dog is safer than emergency surgery.
As for breeders, you may still be able to protect your pet by closely monitoring their seasons and beware of any changes in behaviour.
FAQs About Pyometra in Dogs
1. Can a Dog With Pyometra Survive?
A dog with pyometra can survive if it is given appropriate treatment. Research indicates prognosis is good for affected canines that have undergone surgery to remove their infected reproductive organ. Never leave this condition untreated as it can turn fatal.
2. Are Dogs With Pyometra in Pain?
Dogs with pyometra may experience pain, especially if their symptoms include a distended abdomen.
This reproductive disease can be a harrowing experience for canines. Thus, prompt treatment must be given to give them relief.
3. Can Pyometra Clear on Its Own?
No, pyometra is not clear on its own and may continue to progress if appropriate treatment is not provided.
Making sure affected canines with this condition receive proper medical intervention is critical for their survival.
4. Do All Unspayed Dogs Get Pyometra?
Not all unspayed female dogs will get pyometra, but they are highly vulnerable to developing this disease throughout their life. For this reason, we recommend spaying them to keep them safe from deadly dog uterus problems like pyometra.
Conclusion
Pyometra in dogs is a life-threatening but reversible reproductive disease. If caught and treated early, affected canines have a high chance of making good progress in recovery.
One of the best ways to prevent the development of this condition is through early spaying. So, make sure to have it arranged for your dog when she reaches the right age.