Pus After Urination in a Dog

Pyuria, or pus in urine, is a medical condition defined as the passing of significant amounts of white blood cells in urine. For dogs, many medical problems are associated with this condition, ranging in severity. Pyuria is associated with any medical condition causing cellular injury, tissue damage, inflammation, or death. In addition to pustulent discharge, common symptoms to watch for include redness of mucosal surfaces, tissue swelling, pain, loss of function, fever, depression, appetite loss or dehydration.

  1. Urinary Tract Health

    • Bladder infections are one of the most common causes of pus in urine. Many infections occur when bacteria from the environment enter the dog's body through the urethra, infecting the bladder, urethra, kidney, or both urethra and kidney. As bacterial numbers increase, damage to the epithelial lining of the bladder walls begin to cause hemorrhage. Blood and dead cell material become what is known as pus, and begin to pass along with urine. Cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder, may also be the result of fungal or parasitic causes, tumors or pelvic injuries. Dogs suffering from bladder problems may strain while urinating, exhibit stress, urinate frequently, urinate in smaller quantities, or produce foul smelling urine. Extreme cases may also include pain in the abdominal area, fever, and anorexia. Kidney infections, stones, tumors, disease or trauma also cause pyuria.

    Reproductive Tract Problems in Females

    • Vaginitis, or inflammation of the vagina, is often the result of bacterial, viral or fungal contamination. It can also be caused by the invasion of a foreign body. Cancer or tumors in the reproductive tract, vaginitis, and inflammation of the uterus in un-spayed females, can all lower immune system response. Any of these conditions may cause pyuria. Spaying females at a young age greatly reduces the risk of many of these conditions.

    Problems in Males

    • Un-neutered male dogs are at the highest risk for prostate gland problems, especially as they age. Problems typically appear around 6 years old in sexually active, intact males. Sexually inactive, younger males may have problems even younger. The three most common prostate problems include enlargement, inflammation and cancer. Prognosis is favorable if detected early and treated. Warning signs include frequent urination, blood in urine, pus-like discharge from penis, lethargy, fever, constipation, arched back, and stiff hind legs. The best way to prevent prostrate and other male reproductive problems is to neuter at an early age.

    Treatment

    • In all cases, dogs experiencing pyuria require veterinary treatment as soon as possible. A chemical blood profile and urinalysis will be performed to determine the organs affected. Treatment will vary depending upon the outcome of the tests. Medications, and in some cases invasive treatments or surgeries, will be warranted. Knowing the dog's complete heath history, a list of its symptoms, and knowledge of possible related incidents will aid the veterinarian with the proper diagnosis. Follow up tests are usually conducted to ensure treatments are successful. If left untreated, disorders can result in kidney failure, urinary obstruction, blood poisoning and even death.