Bladder infections in pets are quite common, impacting nearly two out of every ten cats and dogs at some point during their lives. The scary part is that nearly half of these infections become chronic with an every higher percentage being seen if the initial treatment attempt is ill-advised or ineffective. In this article we will explore bladder infections in pets and provide you with a few useful tips to reduce your pets chances of contracting a bacterial bladder infection.
A pet bladder infection is also commonly referred to as cystitis, with urethral infections in both females and males preceding this condition. Female cats and dogs are twice as likely to contract bacterial cystitis and appropriate preventative measured should be taken from day one to make sure an infection does not occur.
Some of the most common causes of bladder infections in pets are advancing age (over 8 years), lack of exercise, exposure to external bacteria (unclean litter boxes or elimination areas), diabetes, failure of the bladder to fully empty, and long-term use of corticosteroids. Additionally, male dogs who have not been neutered may have preexisting prostate problem which could improve their changes of urinary tract bacterial infection.
Pets who go long periods of time without emptying their bladder are at greater risk of developing a bladder infection.
The primary indications of cystitis are painful, frequent urination; a change in urination habits; cloudy urine; foul-smelling urine; anti-social behavior; uncharacteristic aggression; blood in urine; sensitivity to the touch in the area of the bladder (lower hind quarter area), and lethargy. Females with cystitis tend to lick at the vulva and may have a vaginal discharge.
To confirm a diagnosis a trip to the veterinarian will be required at which time he will run a urinalysis, and possibly perform a blood test, identifying bacteria, white blood cells, and red blood cells in the sample.
Once confirmed treatment should be started immediately to stop the spread of bacteria before it reaches the kidneys. My veterinarian tends to prescribe Clindamycin although Amoxicillin is not out of the question.
There is also a new type of flex antibiotic which is given by injection and lasts from 10 to 14 days which may end up being the treatment of choice for many veterinarians.
Note: It is important that your veterinarian both identify the type of bacteria and treat it with the most effective antibiotic against that particular strain to avoid the development of chronic long-term infection.
To prevent bacteria form clinging to the bladder wall urinary acidifiers may be suggested. Blackberries, raspberries, and cranberries contain natural antibacterial compounds that prevent bacteria adhesions to the lining of bladder wall.
If despite your best efforts, and the skillful treatment provided by your veterinarian, the condition becomes chronic antibiotics given at bedtime (or possibly urinary antiseptics) may be the only conventional treatment options left.
In these instances glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplementation for cats and/or one of the highly regarded homeopathic UTI remedies containing Berberis vulg and/or staphysagris (safe for all pets) could be alternative treatment options worth considering.
