To tie in with the acquisition of our new ultrasound machine, this weeks medical spotlight series is on 'Pyometra'.
Pyometra means 'pus in the uterus' and can occur in un-spayed bitches (and more rarely in cats) in the months following a season. In fact it has been found that up to a quarter of un-spayed bitches will suffer from pyometra by the age of 10 years old.
Bacteria and toxins build up within the uterus and if left untreated the consequences are usually life threatening.
Signs of an infection:
There are two types of pyometra which are characterised by whether the cervix is open or closed. A closed pyometra is more serious as the pus cannot escape from the uterus and there is a risk of it rupturing.
Signs you might notice:
- lethargy
- eating less
- drinking a lot
- vomiting
- smelly discharge from the vulva (only with open pyometra)
Diagnosis:
The best way to confirm a suspicion of pyometra is with an ultrasound scan. This will show a distended uterus filled with fluid (see the picture).
Blood tests will be consistent with widespread infection and swabs of the vulva will show bacteria and white blood cells.
Treatment:
The best way to treat pyometra is surgery to remove the infected uterus, coupled with a course of antibiotics. Often a few days in hospital are required for monitoring and recovery.
Medical management can be attempted in certain circumstances (for example it cannot be used with closed pyometra) using injections that reduce the levels of progesterone in the dog. This treatment is not without side-effects, is often unsuccessful, and the rate of recurrence of pyometra at the next season is high.
Prevention:
The only way to be completely prevent pyometra is by spaying your dog (or cat).
There are pros and cons to spaying your pet and I would advise you to get in touch with us if you are unsure and would like to discuss it further
Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries and financial hardship. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to have an experienced virginia motorcycle accident attorney by your side. They can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Some say dark, some day light..anyway, I did read the black hole sun spiritual meaning and yes, I do understand what it really mean on a deeper level.
Planning to separate in Virginia? Our legal team specializes in crafting comprehensive separation agreement in virginia that protect your rights and assets. Let us guide you through this challenging time with clarity and expertise. Schedule a consultation today.
Delve into the repercussions of virginia protective order in Violation. This informative guide outlines the legal consequences, potential penalties, and the importance of adhering to protective orders to ensure a safer environment for all parties involved.
If you're dealing with charges in Harrisonburg reckless driving, our legal insights can help. Discover key information about local regulations, potential consequences, and effective defense strategies. Trust our expertise to guide you through the legal complexities of reckless driving cases.