Closed Pyometra in Dogs Symptoms: What You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 25, 2024

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Closed pyometra in dogs is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt attention. It's a type of uterine infection that occurs when bacteria enter the uterus and cause an abscess to form.

The symptoms of closed pyometra can vary, but they often include a foul-smelling discharge from the vulva, which can be a mix of blood and pus. This discharge is a sign of the infection and can be a warning sign for owners.

As the infection progresses, dogs may exhibit signs of abdominal pain, such as whining, panting, and restlessness. They may also show signs of depression, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

In some cases, dogs with closed pyometra may develop a fever, which can be a sign that the infection is spreading.

A unique perspective: Pyometra in Dogs Discharge

What is Pyometra

Pyometra is a serious medical condition in dogs where a bacterial infection causes pus to accumulate in the uterus.

It's a common health issue in intact female dogs, especially those that are older than six years.

The infection can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus.

The pus can cause the uterus to become distended and painful, leading to a range of symptoms.

Causes

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Pyometra is a serious condition that can affect dogs and cats. It occurs when bacteria infect the uterus, causing it to fill with pus.

The infection is often caused by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, poor reproductive health, and a weakened immune system.

In dogs, pyometra is most common in intact females over the age of seven, especially those that have had multiple heat cycles.

Bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus can infect the uterus, leading to pyometra.

Definition

Pyometra is a serious medical condition that affects the reproductive system of female animals, typically dogs and cats.

Pyometra is a life-threatening condition caused by a bacterial infection in the uterus.

The uterus becomes inflamed and fills with pus, which can lead to sepsis and death if left untreated.

Pyometra can occur at any age, but it's most common in middle-aged to older dogs.

The condition is often referred to as "dried-up uterus" or "wet heat", which can be misleading as it's not just a matter of the uterus being dry or wet.

Credit: youtube.com, PYOMETRA- Definition, Causes,Clinical features, Diagnosis and Treatment

The bacteria that cause pyometra are usually found in the animal's own vaginal flora, which can become imbalanced due to various factors.

Pyometra is often associated with hormonal changes, particularly an increase in estrogen levels, which can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the uterus.

The symptoms of pyometra can be subtle at first, but they can quickly escalate to severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy.

If left untreated, pyometra can lead to sepsis, organ failure, and even death.

Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms of closed pyometra in dogs can be tricky to identify, but some common signs include a bloated or swollen abdomen, no discharge, collapse, anorexia, excessive panting, and a fever of 104 to 106.

If your pup is not spayed and shows these symptoms, it's essential to get her to the vet right away. Early treatment is crucial for her to have a better chance of recovery.

Some dogs with pyometra may also have an increased white blood cell count and globulins in the blood, and may even experience a painful, enlarged abdomen.

Common Symptoms

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If your dog hasn't been spayed and you notice a bloated or swollen abdomen, it's a sign of closed pyometra.

Some dogs with closed pyometra may also exhibit excessive panting, anorexia, or even collapse.

A fever of 104 to 106 degrees is another symptom to watch out for.

The symptoms of closed pyometra can be subtle, but it's essential to catch them early to give your dog the best chance at recovery.

Here are some common symptoms of closed pyometra in dogs:

  • Bloated or swollen abdomen
  • No discharge
  • Collapse
  • Anorexia
  • Excessive panting
  • Fever of 104 to 106

If you notice any of these symptoms, get your dog to the vet right away.

Behavioral Changes

People with anxiety may exhibit behavioral changes such as avoiding social situations or events that trigger their anxiety.

They may also become withdrawn and isolated, preferring to stay at home rather than facing the outside world.

In some cases, they may become overly dependent on others, seeking constant reassurance and support.

As a result, their relationships may suffer, and they may feel lonely and disconnected from others.

They may also have difficulty sleeping or experience insomnia due to racing thoughts and a constant sense of unease.

This can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity, and a lower quality of life.

Stages of Pyometra

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Pyometra is a serious condition that can affect dogs, especially females.

The stages of pyometra are divided into two main categories: open and closed.

Open pyometra occurs when the cervix is open, allowing bacteria to enter the uterus and causing an infection.

In this stage, the dog may experience severe symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Closed pyometra, on the other hand, occurs when the cervix is closed, trapping the pus inside the uterus.

This stage can lead to severe abdominal distension, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

The dog's symptoms will worsen over time if left untreated, so it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

For your interest: Food Alternatives for Dogs

Diagnosis and Detection

Dogs with pyometra often have an increased white blood cell count and high levels of globulins in the blood.

A vet may check for swelling in your dog's abdomen with radiographs or an ultrasound exam.

The initial stage of pyometra can come with a slight vaginal discharge with no prominent symptoms.

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An x-ray can show an enlarged uterus if the uterine cervix is shut, which is a sign of pyometra.

Dogs with pyometra may have an increased white blood cell count and globulins in the blood, and some may have a painful, enlarged abdomen.

An ultrasound can determine whether the dog is pregnant or if they may have pyometra, which can be useful if the x-ray is not conclusive.

Treatment and Management

An emergency spay is the preferred treatment of choice in most veterinary hospitals.

Surgical elimination is the only sure way to resolve the condition. Your veterinarian will likely encourage you to go this route.

If your dog has an open pyometra, they may not necessarily require surgery. There are some cases in which a dog used for breeding has open pyometra and is given antibiotics along with prostaglandins that are used to relax the uterus and allow the cervix to contract to discharge the pus from the uterus.

However, this method may not be worth the risk because there is often a good chance that the pyometra will return unless the pup is pregnant during their next heat cycle.

Spaying your dog is the only sure way to prevent pyometra from occurring.

Additional reading: Open Pyometra

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the survival rate for closed pyometra in dogs?

The survival rate for closed pyometra in dogs is 25-40%. Treatment success varies, but understanding the condition can help inform decision-making for pet owners.

Terry Williamson

Junior Writer

Terry Williamson is a rising star in the world of writing, bringing a fresh perspective to the topics she covers. With a passion for animal welfare and education, Terry has established herself as a go-to expert on canine companions. Her articles on the standard poodle and poodle breeds have been widely read and appreciated for their engaging style and informative content.