What are the signs and symptoms of pyometra in dogs?

Symptoms of pyometra include early warning signs of the animal feeling unwell, such as vomiting, refusal to eat, lethargy, increased thirst and frequent urination. She may also appear to be uncomfortable, because pyometra is a particularly painful condition for dogs, while being somewhat less so for cats.

What does pyometra do to dogs?

Pyometra is a very serious infection of the womb, also known as the ‘uterus’. It’s caused by the womb filling with pus and, if left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure, toxaemia, dehydration and, in some cases, death.

How fast does pyometra progress?

The sooner a dog with a pyometra is treated, the better their chance of survival and recovery. Pyometra can cause death. The most common time for a pyometra to develop is four to eight weeks after a heat/season. Neutering your dog will prevent pyometra.

How common is Pyometra in unspayed dogs?

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus in dogs and cats. It is relatively common, affecting approximately 25\% of unspayed female dogs and cats. It is a serious condition which results in a variety of clinical and pathological signs requiring emergency surgery to remove the infected uterus.

Can Pyometra happen during heat?

Pyometra can develop at any stage of the estrous cycle, although it is more common 1-2 months after estrus. The signs depend on whether the cervix is open or closed. If the cervix is open, any infected material (pus) can drain freely from the uterus.

Should I euthanize my dog with pyometra?

If the uterus bursts open inside your pet, it will release a large number of bacteria inside your pet and will lead to her death. If for some reason treatment is not an option, you may need to choose humane euthanasia to prevent your pet from suffering.

Which of the following is a classic symptom of pyometra?

A classic sign of open pyometra is purulent, foul-smelling discharge from the vulva. In closed pyometra, the cervix is sealed and the infection is trapped in the uterus.

Can pyometra cause anemia?

Leucocytosis, neutrophilia with left shift, anaemia, monocytosis, hypoalbuminemia as well as affected liver or kidney function are common findings [7]. Pyometra has deadly consequences if left untreated and despite modern treatment routines the mortality is 3-4\% [1].