Pyometra in Dogs

Pyometra is a life-threatening infection that affects female dogs, particularly those that have not been spayed. This condition occurs when bacteria enter the uterus, leading to severe inflammation and pus accumulation. Pyometra in dogs requires immediate veterinary attention, as it can quickly progress to sepsis, kidney failure, or even death if left untreated. If you suspect your dog may have pyometra, call Sahara Pines Animal Hospital in Las Vegas, NV, at (702) 876-7580 or book an appointment online today!

What Causes Pyometra in Dogs?

Pyometra develops as a result of hormonal and bacterial influences. After a dog goes through heat, her progesterone levels remain elevated for several weeks. This hormone thickens the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy, but if a dog does not conceive, the uterine wall can become a breeding ground for bacteria. If bacteria from the vaginal tract or the bloodstream enter the uterus, an infection can develop. Factors that increase the risk of pyometra include:

• Repeated heat cycles without pregnancy
• Age, with older unspayed dogs being at higher risk
• Abnormal hormone responses
• Retained placental or fetal tissue after birth
• Administration of hormonal medications, such as estrogen or progesterone

Bacteria, typically Escherichia coli (E. coli) from the digestive tract, can easily ascend into the uterus and proliferate in the favorable conditions created by hormonal changes. Without prompt treatment, the infection can spread, leading to systemic complications.

Symptoms of Pyometra in Dogs

Signs of pyometra can vary depending on whether the cervix is open or closed. The two types of pyometra, open pyometra and closed pyometra, present differently and require urgent veterinary care.

Open Pyometra

When the cervix remains open, pus and other infectious material can drain from the uterus. Symptoms often include:

• Vaginal discharge that may be foul-smelling, yellow, green, or reddish-brown
• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Lethargy and loss of appetite
• Fever and general discomfort
• Mild abdominal swelling

Closed Pyometra

In closed pyometra, the cervix remains sealed, trapping infection inside the uterus. This form is more dangerous because toxins and bacteria accumulate rapidly, increasing the risk of systemic infection. Signs include:

• A swollen or firm abdomen
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• High fever
• Severe lethargy or collapse
• Increased heart rate and rapid breathing

Closed pyometra progresses quickly and can cause organ failure. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.

How Pyometra in Dogs is Diagnosed

Veterinarians diagnose pyometra based on clinical signs, physical exams, and diagnostic tests. Because the symptoms can resemble other conditions, confirmation through imaging and laboratory tests is essential.

Diagnostic Methods

• Ultrasound – Identifies an enlarged, fluid-filled uterus.
• X-rays (Radiographs) – Detects abnormal uterine swelling.
• Bloodwork – Evaluates white blood cell counts, kidney function, and markers of infection.
• Urinalysis – Helps rule out urinary tract infections that may cause similar symptoms.

These diagnostic tools allow veterinarians to differentiate pyometra from other reproductive disorders and determine the best course of action.

Treatment Approach for Pyometra in Dogs

Prompt treatment is necessary to save a dog’s life. The primary treatment options include emergency surgery and, in rare cases, medical management.

Surgical Treatment: Ovariohysterectomy (Spay)

The most effective treatment for pyometra is an emergency spay surgery, which involves removing the infected uterus and ovaries. This procedure eliminates the source of infection and prevents recurrence. Benefits of surgery include:

• Immediate removal of infected tissue
• High success rate in otherwise healthy dogs
• Prevention of future pyometra episodes

However, surgery can be more complex in older or severely ill dogs, requiring intensive post-operative care and hospitalization.

Medical Management

In rare cases, medical treatment may be attempted in breeding dogs where preserving fertility is a priority. This approach includes:

• Intravenous fluids and antibiotics to stabilize the dog.
• Prostaglandins to help expel the infection.
• Close monitoring for signs of worsening infection.

Medical management carries risks, including incomplete infection resolution and a high chance of recurrence. In most cases, spaying is the safest and most effective solution.

Tips for Preventing Pyometra in Dogs

The best way to prevent pyometra is by spaying female dogs before they experience multiple heat cycles. Spaying eliminates the hormonal fluctuations that contribute to uterine infections and offers additional health benefits, such as reducing the risk of mammary tumors and ovarian diseases. Other preventive measures include:

• Routine veterinary checkups to monitor reproductive health.
• Avoiding hormonal medications that alter the heat cycle.
• Prompt attention to reproductive issues such as irregular heat cycles or unusual discharge.

Pet owners should consider spaying their dogs early to protect their long-term health and avoid the risk of pyometra. Contact Sahara Pines Animal Hospital in Las Vegas at (702) 876-7580 or book an appointment online today! Early intervention can make all the difference in treating pyometra in dogs effectively and preventing life-threatening complications.