Collection: UTI in Dogs

My dog has a UTI! Is there something I can do to reduce the need for antibiotics and stop more UTIs from recurring?

Having a dog with a urinary tract infection (UTI) can be concerning. You might wonder if there's anything you can do at home to complement traditional treatments and prevent future UTIs. At Nusentia, our natural pet supplements, including Utrin™ and Probiotic Miracle®, offer support for dogs experiencing the discomfort of UTIs and help maintain urinary health.

Overview

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in dogs, including bladder infections, are not only uncomfortable for your furry friend but can also lead to more serious conditions if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms early and understanding how to treat your dog's UTI while supporting canine urinary health can make a significant difference.

Preventive Remedies and Home Treatments

As a preventive measure, consider a diet free from grains and unnecessary carbohydrates that can lead to digestive issues and exacerbate UTI conditions. Your vet may prescribe a special diet for urinary health. Another recommendation is a raw, grain-free diet which is closer to what a dog's digestive system is conditioned to process.

Prevention of UTIs and bladder infections can also include staying hydrated, urinating when needed (not holding it), and proper hygiene practices. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the infecting organisms, and the type of antibiotics and duration of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and if it's a simple or complicated UTI.

The Nusentia® natural supplements, listed above, were formulated for the natural home treatment of your dog's UTI:

Utrin™ is a specially formulated supplement that combines D-Mannose and Cranberry, two powerful ingredients known for their ability to support urinary health and combat UTIs in dogs at home. D-Mannose helps prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract, while Cranberry acts as an additional barrier against infection.

For comprehensive support, Probiotic Miracle® is recommended to maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora. This balance is crucial, especially if your dog is on antibiotics for a UTI, as it supports the immune system and helps prevent future infections.

What is it?

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a general term that refers to an infection anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are caused by microorganisms, most commonly bacteria, but sometimes fungi or viruses, that enter the urinary tract and cause infection. These infections can affect different parts of the urinary tract and are categorized accordingly:

• Urethritis: Infection of the canine urethra, the duct through which urine exits the body.
• Cystitis: Specifically refers to a bladder infection, a type of UTI where your dog's bladder is also infected. It's the most common type of UTI and is often caused by E. coli, a bacteria commonly found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
• Pyelonephritis: Refers to a kidney infection, which is more serious and can occur when a lower UTI travels upwards to one or both kidneys.

Main causes of urinary infections

• Aging
• Diabetes
• Long-term corticosteroid therapy
• Male dogs who also suffer from prostatitis may have a greater predisposition to bladder infections

A dog with a bladder infection is a dog at risk for bladder stones as well. In some bladder infections, minerals in the urine crystallize to form bladder stones, which can be as small as grains of sand or larger than marbles. Bladder stones can also create areas where bacteria hides.

Dog UTI Symptoms and Signs of Infection

1. Dog has trouble urinating (zero, little, staining, or loss of control)
2. Bloody or cloudy dog urine
3. Dog has increased frequency of urination
4. Soiling in inappropriate places
5. Dog is constant licking of urinary opening
6. Dog urine with a strong smell of ammonia

It may be difficult to recognize if your dog has a bladder infection. Any dog can get a bladder or urinary tract infection, however, bladder infections are most common in female dogs. It you notice your dog straining while trying to urinate, this may be a sign that your dog has developed a bladder infection.

Recognizing and Preventing Dog UTI

Understanding the causes and signs of UTIs in dogs is vital for early detection and treatment. Factors like age, diabetes, and certain medications can increase the risk of UTIs. Symptoms to watch for include difficulty urinating, cloudy or bloody urine, increased urination frequency, and a strong smell of ammonia.

When to see the vet

Always consult your vet if you suspect your dog has a UTI. They may prescribe antibiotics, which are often essential in treating bacterial infections, or uncover an underlying issue that is causing the problem. If your dog has blood in their urine, seek vet attention immediately.