Canine Cystitis"
Canine
cystitis refers to inflammation of the dog bladder. It is caused by a
number of
factors. The most common factor is bacteria. There are
other causes as well such as tumors, fungus, injury and pelvic stress.
However
the the underlying problem associated with all reasons mentioned is
bacteria, specifically opportunistic bacteria,
which worsens the associated condition. Cystitis is a common problem in
dogs, for
a few reasons, particularly since it is easy for a pathogen like
bacteria to enter into a body
through the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the body. Females
are more susceptible due to the shorter distance
a bacterial population has to travel in order to inflame the bladder.
Canine
cystitis may be mild or severe depending on the cause and duration of
the infection. Common signs associated with lower urinary tract
infection include
frequent urination, a reduced volume of urine each time a dog urinates
and more specifically the passing
of blood mixed with pus at the end of the urine stream. Other signs
which
indicate an inflammatory response in severe cases include include pain,
an increase in the blood supply, loss of function, and fever.
Clinical signs and a dog's history can help with making a diagnosis.
However, it is only through
a firm diagnosis is made thorough the use of laboratory procedures that
are collectively called “Urinalysis”.
Urinalysis is the physical, chemical, and microscopic
examination of a urine sample (specimen). The use of antibiotics,
including
sensitivity tests to ensure that a dog doesn't have any negative
reaction to the medication and supportive symptomatic therapy is an
effective
approach to treat cystitis in dogs.
"
Causes of Canine Cystitis:The most frequent cause of canine cystitis is bacteria. Different species of bacteria have been identified in different cases. More than one species of bacteria can cause dual two types of infection in the urinary bladder at the same time. Species such as Staphylococcus and Proteus are the most common types of bacteria, identified in almost all cases of dog cystitis. Bacteria naturally exists in the environment including in kennels, on bedding, and on the inguinal (groin) region of the dog. All of these sources of bacteria can enter into the urinary system through the urethra, which is how urine exits the body. For bacteria, this same passage serves as an opening into the body as well. Bacteria can travel up the urinary tract to the dog bladder. The bladder, particularly when it is storing urine before urination contains excreted glucose and other components that make the bladder a suitable environment for the multiplication of bacteria. After the bacterial population increases, it causes damage to the epithelium or lining of the bladder walls, which cause hemorrhages, blood and dead material called pus to mix together and then pass into the urine, usually at the end of the urine stream. Other than bacteria, some uncommon but possible causes of dog cystitis are tumors, fungus, injuries and pelvic bone stress. These conditions result in damage to the bladder wall where opportunistic bacteria can cause infection. Symptoms of Canine Cystitis:In different studies, it has been proven that older dogs and females are more susceptible to cystitis. That is because older dogs have poor immunity while females have a shorter distance between the vagina and the urinary bladder. Due to inflammation, tumors, injury, or stress in the urinary bladder, or on any part of lower urinary tract, the tract can possibly become congested or partially or fully blocked. As a result, dogs may feel severe pain and have difficulty when urinating. Moreover, dogs will show signs of severe stress and abdominal pain, which is more frequent during urination or if urine is stored in bladder. Dogs will urinate frequently, but in a reduced volume. Due to stress and increased frequency, dogs will urinate in unusual places, including the possibility of urine dripping from the urethra and surrounding areas, which will also cause aggravation and stress for the owner. In the case of a severe bladder infection, dogs may experience generalized signs of illness including fever, loss of body condition and loss of appetite. Blood may pass in the urine, mixed with puss with the color of the urine changing from pink to brown and cloudy in appearance. Apart from that, the viscosity (becomes less watery) of the urine also causes pain and makes urination difficult. Diagnosis of Canine Cystitis:Though clinical signs and history may help when diagnosing a problem in the urinary tract, it can never confirm the presence of cystitis as similar or like signs are noted in other conditions that affect the urinary system like in cases of cystic calculi, nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) or in the case of lower urinary tract syndrome etc. In order to confirm an infection and inflammation in the bladder, a laboratory examination of a urine sample is compulsory. This group of tests is collectively called, “Urinalysis”. A urine sample is examined for its pH value, chemistry, contents, bacterial populations, epithelium puss, and the presence of blood. Physical consistency and appearance is also a part of this examination. Bacterial species may not be isolated in all cases of canine cystitis; therefore, some advanced tests are also required. Similarly, in the case of tumors, obstruction and any injury, a biopsy and x-rays may also be required. Treatment of Canine Cystitis:Mild bacterial dog cystitis usually resolves by
using antibiotics
for 2 – 3 weeks. Amoxicillin and Cephadroxil are alternatives for
treating cystitis in dogs. The monitoring of progress is essential, and
urine examination should be conducted after every 3 – 5 days during
treatment. Antibiotic therapy may be continued for 4 – 6 weeks in
severe cases, but it is only recommended in case a confirmatory
diagnosis
has been made. Homeopathic supplements may also be of help during recovery from cystitis and to maintain bladder condition. For example, DetoxPlus is formulated to help with the elimination of bacterial toxins, but only after partial recovery is achieved with conventional approaches. Other products such as UTI-Free Formula contain ingredients that can help with symptoms such as frequent urination, canine bladder discomfort and dog urine leakage.
Share Your Story:Have a story to tell about this topic that will help others or want to ask a question? Each week 1 question will be answered by our editors. Share your story or dog health questions here. References:Merck Veterinary Manual (Merck & Co. 2008)
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