We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Environment

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Treat a Canine Bladder Infection?

By Debra Durkee
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 3,857
Share

A bladder infection can be uncomfortable for a dog as well as troublesome for his or her owner. Characterized by frequent urination and occasional discharge, most canine bladder infections can be successfully treated by consistent administration of antibiotics. The infection can be further encouraged to disappear by drinking plenty of water.

A canine bladder infection is caused in much the same way urinary tract infections are. Bacteria enter the urethra of the dog, and in the case of a bladder infection, travel up the tube and settle into the bladder. As the condition is caused by a bacterial infection, most veterinarians will prescribe two to three weeks of antibiotics.

It is vitally important that the entire prescription be given to the dog, even if he or she is showing no signs of still having the canine bladder infection. If there are any bacteria left in the bladder or urethra when the antibiotics are stopped, they may begin to multiply again and re-infect the dog. The canine bladder infection may return, and after an incomplete round of medication the bacteria can build up a resistance to the medication. When this occurs, it is necessary to start the dog on another type of antibiotic, or the infection may be much, much more difficult to get rid of with the original medication.

Dogs should always have fresh water provided for them, but encouraging them to drink more can also help flush foreign bodies through the system. Keeping an eye on the dog while it is urinating can also help determine the effectiveness of the medication; if the canine bladder infection is getting worse, blood may be visible in the urine. A bladder infection, left untreated, can turn into a more serious problem like a kidney infection or result in the buildup of crystalline structures inside the bladder.

Some foods can help prevent the bacteria inside the bladder from continuing to build up. Much like in humans, cranberries can be effective in aiding antibiotics in ridding the bladder and urinary tract of bacteria. Chemicals in cranberries keep the bacteria from infecting the tissues of the bladder itself, and with the addition of plenty of water to the diet, this can also help flush the bacteria from the system. Foods like raspberries include the same chemicals that make cranberries effective, and when a dog is subject to recurring infections, giving these fruits as a preventative may help canine bladder infection from taking hold.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-treat-a-canine-bladder-infection.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.