How do I know if my dog has a UTI?

How do I know if my Dog Has a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common issue for dogs, especially senior dogs. UTIs can be painful, debilitating, and sometimes difficult to diagnose. If your dog is exhibiting suspicious symptoms, there are a few ways to figure out if they have a UTI.

Symptoms of a UTI

The most common sign that your dog has a UTI is frequent, painful urination. In more advanced cases, you may also notice blood in your pup’s urine. Other symptoms that may indicate they have a UTI include:

Frequent licking of the genital area

Discolored or cloudy urine

Lethargy

Loss of appetite

Diagnosing UTIs

If you’ve noticed any of the signs of a UTI, it’s important to take your pup to the vet for an accurate diagnosis. To properly diagnose a UTI, your vet will take a urine sample to search for bacteria, crystals, or infection.

The sample will be tested for pH and specific gravity to verify the presence of any infection that may be present. Abnormal results on these tests usually mean a presence of infection.

Treatment

Once your vet has confirmed the presence of a UTI, they will provide you with a course of treatment. Treatment usually involves an antibiotic, as well as changes to your pup’s diet to promote better urinary health.

It is important to follow your vet’s instructions regarding the antibiotic and dietary changes to ensure your pup’s UTI is properly treated. If a proper course of treatment is not followed, the UTI may return or worsen.

Prevention

The best way to prevent UTIs in your pup is to practice regular preventive care. Make sure your pup is getting plenty of fresh water and exercise, as well as regular checkups with your vet. It is also important to keep your pup’s living area clean and free of any bacteria-harboring materials.

By practicing good preventative care and paying attention to the signs of UTIs, you can help ensure your pup stays healthy and happy.