As pet owners, we must be aware of the unique things that can make our furry friends ill. Pyometra is a life-threatening infection that affects female cats and dogs, but not humans. It is important to know about pyometra to ensure your pet will have a long, comfortable life.
What is Pyometra?
Pymoetra is a secondary infection occurring in the uteruses of dogs and cats. When an animal has been in heat, they can retain high levels of progesterone for up to two months. This builds up over an animal’s lifetime. Given that the dog or cat has not been pregnant, the uterine lining will continually grow thicker. Cysts begin to grow and secrete fluids, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to fester. Then, bacteria can enter the reproductive tract in a variety of ways. Typically, this occurs through urinary tract infections and fecal contamination.
What Does Pyometra Look Like?
Pyometra can be difficult to spot. If the cervix is open, pus will drain out of the uterus. Look for unusual discharge around your pet’s tail or on surfaces they have recently laid on. Cats clean themselves regularly, so it can be harder to identify pyometra in cats than dogs.
Animals with pyometra may act differently. They often exhibit “energy changes,” becoming more lethargic or depressed. They may also experience appetite changes; many animals with pyometra develop anorexia. Increased water input or urination can also be causes for concern. Symptoms will be stronger in cases of closed cervix pyometra. Along with the other symptoms, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or fever.
How Is Pyometra Treated?
A pet with pyometra will need to have their uterus removed. Cats or dogs in the early stages of pyometra are better candidates for surgery. At this point, the procedure is comparable to a spay. As pyometra progresses, the surgery becomes more complicated. The animal will be hospitalized for a longer period of time. She will also require antibiotics.
How Can My Pet Avoid Pyometra?
The best way to avoid pyometra is to get your pet spayed. Spayed pets will not experience periods of heat. It is best to do this at a young age, so the uterine lining does not have a chance to thicken at all. However, spaying at any point in your pet’s life will help her avoid pyometra.
At Claws N Paws, we always have you and your pet’s best needs in mind. We provide professional grooming services to both dogs and cats at our location in Fountain Valley, California. Right next door, we provide boarding services in our cats-only facility. Stop by today or call 714-962-1005 for more information or to make an appointment.