As a pet parent, occasionally we make mistakes and delay diagnostics and treatment because we don’t realise that our pet may have a health problem and be in pain. Instead of scolding our pets for urinating in the house, it’s important to find out if there is an underlying medical issue causing the behaviour. Read on to learn more about how inappropriate urination is not just a sign that your pet needs further training but could be the first sign of illness.
The most important route for animal waste elimination is through the urinary system. The kidneys filter the blood so that useful substances circulate back into the body where they can be utilised and waste materials are excreted as urine. The kidneys also maintain a healthy fluid balance by excreting excess water, regulating pH by eliminating unbalanced ions, and even support red blood cell production by producing hormones. Once all of these materials are filtered out of the blood stream by the kidneys, they travel down the ureters (tubes) to the bladder. The bladder holds all of these waste products until the animal is ready to urinate. When the cat or dog urinates, the urine is release from the bladder and travels through the urethra where it is excreted.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria is introduced and travels up the urethra. The most common type of UTI is called a “lower” urinary tract infection because the bacteria and inflammation is confined to the urethra. The infection can spread into the bladder, ureters and even the kidneys. The further up the tract that the infection goes, the more serious it is.
Some signs may help you determine if your pet has a problem with its urinary tract:
- Bloody and/or cloudy urine
- Straining or whimpering during urination
- Accidents in the house
- Needing to be let outside more frequently
- Licking around the urinary opening
Other symptoms associated with urinary tract disease include:
- Strong odor of the urine
- Increased amount or frequency of urination
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Increased water consumption
- Vomiting
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss
- Severe back pain
Untreated lower urinary tract disease can cause serious medical problems for pets. Along with discomfort, untreated infections can result in partial or complete blockage of the urethra, disrupting urine output and leading to toxic levels of waste buildup.
If your pet’s urinary symptoms are caused by disease, the condition can progress if left untreated, and your pet’s symptoms may worsen or increase to include other symptoms. Many serious conditions, like cancers, can be fatal if left untreated.
Appointment/Enquiry:
3650 3000 (Mon-Sun: 9:00am – 7:00pm)
Address:
G-2/F, Trinity Towers, 339 Lai Chi Kok Road, Sham Shui Po
Online booking for revisit with primary care veterinarians or vaccination:
https://www.cityuvmc.com.hk/en/online-booking