Pyometra

By Deb Haines

What is Pyometra?
Pyometra is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus that causes it to fill with bacteria and pus.

What dogs and cats gets Pyometra?
Any female dog or cat that has not been spayed can develop pyometra. Unspayed middle-aged and older female dogs are most at risk. The initial stage of pyometra usually comes with a slight vaginal discharge with no prominent symptoms.

FACTS

• Potentially life-threatening infection of the uterus.
• Unspayed middle-aged and older female dogs are most at risk.
• Medical emergency requiring prompt treatment with surgery and antibiotics.
• Often a good outcome with early intervention, but deadly if left untreated.
• Prevented by spaying female dogs when young and healthy

How does my vet diagnose Pyometra?
Your veterinarian will diagnose a pyometra based on physical exam findings, such as vaginal discharge and a history of a recent heat cycle.

• Your vet may want to run tests such as…
• Ultrasound or X-rays to identify an enlarged, fluid-filled uterus
• Blood work
• Urine sample
• *Vaginal cytology
• How can I tell if my female dog or cat could have Pyometra?
• Vaginal discharge
• Lethargy
• Poor appetite
• Increase thirst and urination
• Distended or painful belly
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Pale gums
• Weakness or collapse

The severity of signs of a pyometra will depend on whether the cervix (entrance into the uterus) is open or closed. More severe signs of illness will occur when the cervix is closed.

Pyometra is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. Untreated pyometra can be deadly from overwhelming infection and sepsis

NOTE….Pyometra can be easily prevented by spaying at a young and healthy age.

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**