Signs Your Dog Has A Urinary Tract Infection

Posted on: 22 August 2018

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If your dog's urinary habits have suddenly started to change, you may become concerned, especially if they have also started eating less and drinking more. If so, look for the following signs that your dog may have a urinary tract infection.

Frequent Accidents in the House

Up until now, your dog may have been consistent in only going to the bathroom outside. However, you may have noticed that they are having frequent accidents in the house, even when they just went outside.

Not only is your dog frequently going to the bathroom in the house, you may have also noticed that they are going only in small amounts. When they have a urinary tract infection, your dog will need to urinate more frequently.

However, they will not be able to expel much at one time because of the inflammation in their bladder and urethra. Depending on how bad the infection and inflammation have become, your dog may cry out whenever they try to urinate because it has become painful.

Strong Odor When Urinating

Another sign that your dog has a urinary tract infection is the presence of a strong, foul odor coming from their urine. You may even be able to detect the smell from across the room. One way to describe the odor is old, stale metal mixed with ammonia.

If there is an infection, your dog's urine will have a large amount of bacteria and pus. Also, it will most likely be highly concentrated, making the odor even stronger.

Constantly Licking Themselves

As the infection worsens, you may start noticing that your dog is constantly licking themselves. However, this behavior has less to do with trying to clean the area and more to do with trying to find relief.

When the bladder and urethra become infected and inflamed, your dog will start experiencing pain and itchiness. One way they will try to deal with this discomfort is to lick the area in an attempt to get rid of whatever is causing it, as well as to temporarily soothe the area.

Especially when combined with one or both of the other symptoms discussed above, there is a high likelihood of an infection.

If your dog starts exhibiting any of the above signs and symptoms, they may have a urinary tract infection. Make an appointment with a vet clinic so that they can diagnose and treat your pet before the infection becomes serious.