Symptoms of Canine Pyometra

Canine pyometra usually occurs 6 to 8 weeks after a female dog goes out of heat.  Pyometra is a life-threatening bacterial infection in the uterus.  It most often occurs in middle-aged or older dogs, although it can affect younger dogs.  Medical and surgical options are available for the treatment of pyometra, although surgical is the most commonly recommended.  Medical treatment is generally reserved for breeding dogs, dogs considered surgical risks, and very young dogs.

A bloody or pus-filled vaginal discharge is one of the most commonly seen symptoms in dogs experiencing a pyometra.  Due to the infection the discharge is foul-smelling.  When a discharge is present, the condition is called an open pyometra.  If there is no sign of a discharge, it is referred to as a closed pyometra.  Dogs with a closed pyometra are usually more ill since the body is retaining the infection.  Numerous other symptoms of pyometra include:

• Decreased Body Temperature
• Dehydration
• Elevated White Blood Cell Count
• Excessive Thirst
• Excessive Urination
• Fever
• Increased Body Temperature
• Lethargy
• Loss of Appetite
• Vomiting

Pyometra is a very serious condition and requires the immediate attention of a veterinarian.