Pet Ownership: Signs Your Dog Has a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Urinary tract infections are common in canines as they are in humans. While all canine breeds and ages can suffer from UTIs, it is generally seen in female dogs. Painful conditions like these can be brought on by bacteria, crystals, health conditions like diabetes, or some medications, to name a few. Factors like prostate illness and weakened immune systems can also increase the threat of this infection.

Ever wondered if your pet is struggling with urinary tract infections? Fortunately, that’s what we will tackle here. So what are the indicators of a dog UTI?

Five Common Symptoms of UTI in Dogs

Do you know that about 14% of canines will experience this condition in their lifetime? Unfortunately, you will never know if your dog will be one of those, so it is crucial to understand the signs. Besides the pain and discomfort this condition brings, it may also affect your furry buddy’s behavioral patterns and biological functions. So below are five typical indications of UTIs in canines you must watch out for.

1. Straining when urinating

Have you tried listening to the noises your pet makes when urinating? If you observe your pet straining to urinate, or whining out in pain, a UTI or other conditions are likely to be blamed.

2. Extreme licking of the urinary opening

Do you know that pets lick themselves to relieve inflammation and pain, not just to clean their bodies? So if you observe your pup becoming more focused on licking the area around the urinary opening, it’s most likely that they may be suffering from the discomfort caused by UTI.

Everyone understands that vaccinations, regular checkups, and parasite preventatives are essential to a pet’s health to protect them and prevent dangerous conditions. However, taking quick action by taking your pet to the vet after seeing serious signs is also a good way to prevent their disease from worsening and save their life before it’s too late.

By clicking here, you can see comprehensive information about the necessary vet care your young pet will need.

3. Frequent urination

Among the earliest signs of canine UTI you must watch out for is their greater need to urinate. This occurs when your dog drinks more water than normal, which might also show an underlying condition. In addition, if your dog asks you to open the door more frequently or go out for walks just so they can urinate, this can signify UTI.

This is where you need to consider taking your canine to a veterinary internist for a tailored treatment option to help manage their condition. Additionally, you may take your furry companion to a pet cardiology professional if you suspect your pet has a heart condition.

4. Accidents in the house

Indoor pets are often trained not to urinate inside the home. They are usually relaxed and can conveniently signal when they want to go outside or to the bathroom before doing their thing. However, if you see them inadvertently peeing inside your home without doing their usual way of telling you to accompany them outside, then something is wrong.

Taking your beloved pet to a close-by veterinary laboratory facility can help identify their condition with advanced diagnostic services and medications to help address your pet’s disease. You may browse the web to see how a veterinary diagnostics can help greatly in identifying various pet conditions for easier and faster treatments.

5. Cloudy or bloody urine

If you’re seeing blood in your pet’s urine, this is a proven method to tell that your canine is experiencing UTI or something worse. Upon seeing blood in their urine, you should have them tested and examined by a veterinarian immediately to understand its exact cause.