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Mizia

by admin on June 1st, 2015

Category: Pet of the Month, Tags:

Mizia pet of the month

Our pet of the month is Mizia, seen here recovering from a hysterectomy she urgently needed for pyometra.

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus (womb).  It is a common condition in older female dogs that have not been speyed, but can occur in entire bitches of any age.  Occasionally we see cases occurring in cats.

Each time a bitch has a season (usually about twice a year) she undergoes all the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy – whether she becomes pregnant or not. The changes in the uterus that occur with each season make infection more likely with age.  A very common organism called E. coli, found in your dog’s faeces, usually causes the infection.  We most commonly see cases of pyometra in the 4-6week period after a heat.

The symptoms usually develop around 6 weeks after the female has finished bleeding from her last season, but in some cases the bitch appears to have a prolonged season.

Early signs that you may notice are that your dog is:

  • Licking her back end more than normal
  • Off colour
  • Off her food
  • Drinking more than normal  (and will probably urinate more)

These signs will progress and you may see:

  • Pus (yellow/red/brown discharge) from her vulva
  • She may have a swollen abdomen
  • Vomiting
  • Collapse

If left untreated signs will worsen to the point of dehydration, collapse and death from septic shock.

 

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