What Is Pyometra in Dogs?
Pyometra in dogs is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus. It causes inflammation in the uterus of female dogs, leading to the formation of abscesses or the accumulation of pus within the organ. This condition can severely affect the dog’s health.
With pyometra, toxins and bacteria can penetrate the uterine wall, spreading into the bloodstream and causing tissue damage. This damage can progress to tissue death (necrosis), which may result in the rupture of the uterus, releasing pus into the abdominal cavity. Moreover, the accumulation of toxins can harm the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. Without prompt and effective treatment, pyometra can be fatal.
Pyometra typically develops two to eight weeks after a female dog’s heat (estrus) cycle. Sadly, it is common among dogs that are not spayed, affecting up to 25% of them. The positive aspect is that pyometra is highly preventable through early spaying, which removes the uterus and eliminates the source of female hormones that contribute to the infection.
Recognizing pyometra as a medical emergency, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly if you suspect your female dog is affected. Immediate care can make a significant difference in her prognosis and recovery.
Symptoms and Types
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Depression
- Reduced appetite
- Increased thirst and urination (PU/PD)
- Vomiting
- Vaginal discharge (though not always present)
- Distended abdomen
Causes
Pyometra can manifest in unspayed female dogs at any stage after they have commenced their heat cycle or reached sexual maturity. While it can occur at any age, it is more prevalent in dogs over 5 years old, especially after multiple heat cycles that induce significant alterations in the female reproductive system.
This uterine infection results from hormonal fluctuations in a female dog’s reproductive system. It typically arises shortly after a dog’s heat cycle, during which elevated levels of progesterone persist to facilitate the body’s preparation for potential pregnancy.
Progesterone prompts thickening of the uterine lining, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Additionally, it diminishes the uterus muscles’ ability to contract and expel accumulated fluids or bacteria, as expected during a normal heat cycle.
- coli, the primary bacteria responsible for pyometra in dogs, is believed to ascend from the intestinal tract and infect the uterus. Recent years have witnessed an uptick in pyometra cases among dogs fed raw meat, which elevates the presence of bacteria, notably salmonella and E. coli, in their stool.
A reduced count of white blood cells in the uterus also contributes to pyometra, as these cells play a crucial role in combating infections. During a dog’s heat cycle, the entry of white blood cells into the uterus is inhibited, a protective mechanism facilitating sperm entry without interference from these cells.
The interplay of heightened hormones and diminished white blood cells often precipitates life-threatening pyometra in dogs. Pyometra can also occur in unspayed female dogs administered estrogen or progesterone medications.
A prevalent misconception about pyometra is the expectation of visible pus discharge from the vagina, which may not always occur. The cervix typically remains tightly closed except during or immediately after heat. An open cervix permits pus, sometimes with bloody discharge, to exit the vagina, while a closed cervix prevents such discharge, leading to a distended abdomen. Closed pyometra progresses more rapidly and can be mistaken for other conditions, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Open pyometras outnumber closed ones in occurrence.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians diagnose pyometra in dogs through several diagnostic measures, beginning with a physical examination.
If vaginal discharge is evident, a sample is collected and examined under a microscope to identify bacteria and other cells present immediately after estrus.
Additionally, veterinarians often suggest imaging tests like ultrasound or abdominal X-rays to assess the distended, fluid-filled uterus.
Bloodwork is also conducted to detect signs of infection and potential kidney complications.
Treatment
Pyometra in dogs demands immediate treatment as it constitutes a medical emergency.
The primary approach to treating pyometra involves spaying the affected dog through a surgical procedure known as ovariohysterectomy, which entails the removal of the uterus and ovaries. During surgery, meticulous care is taken to prevent the spillage of pus and bacteria into the abdominal cavity. Given the complexity of pyometra surgery compared to routine spaying, costs typically range from five to ten times higher.
In cases where the uterus has ruptured, leading to pus in the abdominal cavity, veterinarians perform repeated flushing during surgery to forestall sepsis, a systemic infection arising from bacteria in the bloodstream. Antibiotics are administered during and after surgery to mitigate the risk of sepsis. Pain medication is also provided to manage the dog’s discomfort throughout the procedure and recovery period.
Depending on the severity of the dog’s condition, hospitalization for intravenous fluids and additional medical interventions may be necessary for several days or longer.
While an alternative treatment option exists for dogs with pyometra, it is generally not recommended. This option is considered when pet owners desire their dog to reproduce and have puppies. However, even if successful, such treatments leave the dog highly susceptible to recurring pyometra, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
The alternative treatment involves the administration of prostaglandin, a hormone injected to induce uterine contractions and expel pus from the body. This method is only viable for cases of open pyometra, not closed ones. Following prostaglandin injections, the dog must undergo breeding and a successful pregnancy during the next heat cycle to mitigate the high reoccurrence rate of pyometra, estimated at 77%.
Without surgery or successful prostaglandin treatment, recovery from pyometra is highly improbable. Delayed treatment allows toxic bacteria to proliferate, often resulting in fatal consequences.
Living and Management
During the recovery phase following surgery, close monitoring of your dog is crucial. The duration of recovery typically spans a few weeks, although it may extend longer for dogs experiencing severe illness.
To safeguard the incision site, your dog should wear a protective collar or surgical suit to prevent licking. Antibiotics are administered for a minimum of two weeks post-surgery to thwart potential infections.
Strict rest is highly advised during the recovery period, lasting at least two weeks following surgery. Activities such as running, jumping, or rough play should be avoided as they can strain the surgical incision, leading to infection or wound reopening. Consider crate-resting your dog during this time, particularly if other pets in the household may disrupt her recovery process.
In the event of incision opening, your dog may require additional surgery for repair. Your veterinarian might prescribe pain medication with sedative properties to help keep your dog relaxed during the healing process.
Pyometra in Dogs FAQs
What is the survival prognosis for a dog with pyometra?
- Without prompt treatment via surgery or successful prostaglandin injection, a dog’s recovery from pyometra is highly improbable. Failure to initiate treatment expediently can lead to fatal consequences due to the toxic bacteria involved.
What are the earliest indicators of pyometra in dogs?
- The initial symptoms of pyometra may not be specific and could be indicative of various health issues beyond an infected uterus. These early signs commonly include lethargy, vomiting, changes in appetite, and the potential presence of vaginal discharge.