Canine interstitial cystitis is when a dog's bladder and bladder wall are inflamed, but not because of infection. Sometimes it is called sterile recurring cystitis. Canine interstitial cystitis can be harder to treat than cystitis caused by bacterial infection.
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Causes
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According to veterinarian Dr. Bari Spielman, chronic interstitial cystitis in dogs can be triggered by injury, chronic kidney problems, urinary stones, birth defects of the urinary tract, certain medications like cyclophosphamide, bladder polyps or tumors.
Early Symptoms
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The dog may cry out when urinating and want to urinate more often. But the urine will be in small amounts, sometimes flecked with blood and mucus.
Later Symptoms
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The Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook notes that as the cystitis progresses, a dog will often lose its appetite, become lethargic and may vomit.
Diagnosis
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Diagnostic tools include checking what medications the dog is on, urinalysis, X-rays and ultrasounds. Sometimes stones or tumors can be felt by the vet when palpitating the dog's body.
Treatment
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Surgery is needed in cases of stones, polyps, small tumors or birth defects. If the dog has lymphoma or another cancer, chemotherapy and medication to shrink any tumors may be necessary.
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