Pet Bladder Infection

Bladder Infections / Cystitis

Bladder infections are common in dogs, especially in female dogs. A common medical term for a bladder infection in dogs is cystitis. Risk factors for cystitis in dogs include being female, being overweight, having a history of urinary tract infections, and having a urinary tract abnormality. Symptoms of cystitis in dogs include frequent urination, painful urination, and blood in the urine. If you suspect your dog has a bladder infection, it is important to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of a bladder infection in dogs and cats can include:

    1. Frequent urination
    2. Painful urination
    3. Blood in the urine
    4. Straining to urinate
    5. Urinating in inappropriate places
    6. Urinary incontinence
    7. Increased thirst
    8. Abdominal discomfort
    9. Licking of the urinary opening

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other medical conditions as well, so it is important to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, a bladder infection can lead to more serious complications such as kidney infections or bladder stones.

Bladder infections in dogs and cats can be caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and multiply. In some cases, bladder infections can be caused by underlying issues such as bladder stones, tumors, or abnormalities in the urinary tract. Other potential causes of bladder infections in pets include a diet that is high in sugar or other substances that can promote the growth of bacteria, a lack of access to clean water, and a lack of proper hygiene. Stress and hormonal imbalances can also contribute to the development of bladder infections in pets.

Cystitis vs Urinary Tract Infection

Cystitis and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be the same thing, but they aren’t always. Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder that can be caused by infectious or noninfectious reasons. UTIs are infections of the urinary tract, including everything from the urethra to the bladder to the kidneys.

pain scale for pet bladder infection

Pet bladder infections can be quite painful.

A bladder infection in a dog or cat can be quite painful, especially when the animal is urinating. The animal may yelp, whimper or bite when trying to urinate, or may avoid urinating altogether. This is because the inflammation and infection of the bladder lining can cause discomfort and pain. If your pet is showing signs of discomfort or pain, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

It’s important to note that pain can be a subjective experience, and animals can’t express it with words, so it’s difficult to know the level of pain that an animal is experiencing. Some animals may not show any signs of pain, but still be in discomfort, while others may show a lot of signs of pain with a mild discomfort. A veterinarian will be able to assess the animal and give an estimate of how much pain they are in.