Canine Urinary Tract Infection and Struvites
Struvite Urine Crystals Are Usually Caused by Bacteria in The Urine
There are a variety of factors that can plague dogs in the form of canine urinary tract infections. Bladder problems are common in dogs and may recur many times even after treatment. Often, the cause of urinary infection is the accumulation of bacteria in the dog's bladder.
Struvite crystals are not unusual in normal urine and present no concern unless they are present in very large amounts which can result in stones.
Struvites and Canine Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Struvites are caused by urinary tract infections. Bacteria in the urine cause alkaline urine (high pH) which creates the perfect environment for formation. Certain dog breeds are predisposed including Bichon Frises, Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Schnauzers and are more prevalent in female dogs.
Many medications like diuretics, cortisone, sulpha drugs and tetracycline increase calcium levels in the urine that sets the stage for the formation of crystals and stones.
Signs and Symptoms of Canine UTI
- Frequent urination, often at inappropriate places
- Incontinence/inability to control urine
- Excessive straining in an attempt to urinate
- Whining or yelping in pain when trying to urinate
- Cloudy urine that contains blood or pus often foul smelling
- Crystals in urine
- Frequent licking of the genital area
- Tenderness in the area near the bladder or pain in lower back
- Fever and lethargy
How Urinary Tract Infection is Diagnosed
A urinary test is done at your vet's office to determine if infection is present. There are also home screening urinalysis kits available online from various websites such as ThePetCheckup. This does not replace veterinary care but rather aids in determining if infection exists and then be treated by a veterinarian.
The urine is collected in a sterile manner and then identified as to what type of bacteria is present and the appropriate antibiotic then prescribed. Once the antibiotic therapy is completed, another culture is performed to determine if bacteria is still present.
Once antibiotic therapy has been completed and the infection gone, the urine returns to a normal pH. The pet owner should be alert for recurring symptoms and seek veterinary care.
Prevention
Diet changes are usually not indicated with struvites as with stones as it is an inflammatory response to the infection.
Important measures to minimize recurrent bladder problems include:
- Taking your dog on at least two walks a day will also increase the frequency of urination and may reduce the risk of infection.
- Increase the amount of water in your pet's diet, preferably with wet food.
- Make sure that your pet has access to plenty of clean, fresh water.
- When urine remains in the bladder for a long time, bacteria can multiply and your pet will be more prone to infection. Access to frequent urination is important so the bladder is emptied frequent to prevent urine stagnation.
For more information on Canine Urinary Tract Infections read this website.
Water is important to prevent dog bladder problems
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