Pyometra in dogs is a common disease. It is considered a serious reproductive disorder. It is found only in bitches. It is characterized by an inflammatory process in the uterus with accumulation of pus (if the cervical canal is closed) and parallel inflammation of the endometrium (the inner layer of the uterus lining its cavity). In the absence of treatment (or when prolonged), the development of disturbances leading to infertility (or even death) of the animal is possible.
Depending on the nature of the inflammation and the condition of the
cervix, the pyometer in dogs is divided into open (with the presence of
purulent discharge) and closed (with the accumulation of pus inside). Cases with an amount of pus of 5 liters were recorded. The disease is dangerous, often requires an operative solution, since drug treatment is not always successful. Lack of help will lead to
uterine rupture and secondary peritonitis. Then the treatment of pyometers will be pointless. The cause of death can also be septic lesions:
liver abscess, purulent cholangitis, etc.
Causes of pyometers
Most veterinarians agree that inflammation is caused by hormonal changes. A bacterial infection usually enters the open canal of the uterus during estrus. Although the inflammatory process with the accumulation of pus can begin with its own normal bacterial flora of the vagina. Often, a pyometer in dogs appears against the background of cystic endometrial hyperplasia (yielding to the influence of progesterone, the glands located in the uterus increase and secrete secretions, and the accumulating fluid, in turn, provokes the formation of a cyst (or cyst)). Possible causes of the disease include hormonal contraception (anti-pregnancy pills after mating and drugs that delay estrus).
Risk group
In a special risk group for dogs:
- not giving birth;
- not sterilized;
- knitting uncontrollably;
- after estrus;
- with a constant “spoon” (false pregnancy).
Symptoms
Symptoms are not always bright, and in the initial stages may be absent altogether. Symptoms appear as the uterus is filled with pus. The dog becomes lethargic, less mobile, often loses appetite. Discharges (various kinds: purulent-bloody, cream, greenish) appear from the loop. Cleaner dogs often lick (an additional sign for inspection). Sometimes the discharge may have the character of an ending estrus (too prolonged estrus), while the loop may still be swollen.
The closed form of pyometers complicates the diagnosis. In this case, the dog goes to the veterinarian when rescue is no longer always possible. The temperature with the pyometer is usually normal (increased only in the early stages of the disease). There may be increased thirst (renal dysfunction affects), frequent urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Perhaps an increase in the abdomen (without mating) and a slight swelling (protrusion) between the loop and anus.
Important: independent
palpation of the abdomen is unacceptable - there is a risk of uterine rupture!
Diagnostics
Pyometra in dogs is diagnosed on the basis of studies of smears, blood, urine and clinical signs.
Pyometra in dogs - treatment
The main method is surgical ovariogisterectomy (sterilization).
In rare cases, treatment with pyometers is possible by medication, however, even after recovery (and the risk is 1:10, that is, for 10 bitches of the dead only one saved), relapses or serious complications are frequent.