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Dog Urinary Tract Infections (Cystitis)

Dog urinary tract infections are rather common and are just as uncomfortable for dogs as they are for us.

Urinary tract infections in dogs may be caused by different forms of bacteria, fungi, or parasites that somehow have gained access to the bladder or urethra. If the infections are not properly treated, they can spread upward to the kidneys, causing serious problems.

Female dogs are especially susceptible to urinary tract infections because of their short urethra. To protect your female dog from urinary tract infections, therefore, keep her clean - wipe her bottom with a baby wipe after urination to get rid of the bacteria.

Symptoms of Dog Urinary Tract Infections

Dog UTI

Your dog may have developed cystitis if he:

  • urinates more frequently
  • urinates in inappropriate places, such as on the couch, on his own bed, etc.
  • strains or even cries when trying to urinate
  • has traces of blood in his urine
  • is lethargic
  • has back pain
  • is feverish

To properly diagnosis dog urinary tract infections, take your dog to a veterinarian for a urinalysis and possibly other tests, such as X-ray (to rule out the possibility of bladder stones).

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Herbal Remedies for Dog Urinary Tract Infections

Herbs can also be used effectively to address the problem of urinary tract infections in dogs from three approaches:

1. To get rid of the actual infection

For this purpose, use herbs that are antibacterial such as Oregon grape,echinacea, goldenseal, or garlic can be used due to their antibiotic properties.

2. To stimulate urine flow

To this end, use herbs that are diuretic, such as dandelion root. It is a strong diuretic and it stimulates the urinary organs.

Other effective herbs are nettle, parsley, and juniper berry. These herbs are diuretic and at the same time antiseptic.

3. To coat and soothe the bladder

Marshmallow root is the herb of choice for this purpose. It is safe and contains mucilage that coats internal mucous membranes. In addition, it is antimicrobial and immune-stimulating as well.

Try This Herbal Formula for Dog UTIs

Only Natural Pet Tract-Ease Herbal Formula 2 oz.

This natural herbal formula contains herbs effective for treating urinary tract infections, such as juniper berry, parsley, marshmallow root, ginger root, and goldenseal. It is designed to protect, soothe, strengthen and rebuild the entire urinary tract.

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Homeopathic Remedies for Dog Urinary Tract Infections

Homeopathy is also effective in treating dog urinary tract infections. There are numerous homeopathic medicines (e.g. Aconite, Pulsatilla, Apis, Sarsaparilla) that are suitable for this disease, but we can only get the best result if the most appropriate medicine is selected based on the numerous specific symptoms exhibited by the dog. Please therefore consult a holistic veterinarian if you want to take the homeopathic treatment approach.

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Natural Supplements for Dog Urinary Tract Infections

Some natural supplements that are beneficial to dogs with urinary tract infections include:

Cod-liver oil

The vitamin A in the oil will keep the lining of the bladder and urinary tract in good condition.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can acidify the urine which in turn helps control bacterial infection.

Cranberry juice or powder

Cranberry is shown to be effective in preventing cystitis in animals (and people). Cranberry helps keep bacteria from adhering to the lining of the bladder and the urethra. If you want to feed cranberry juice to your dog as a preventive measure against urinary tract infections, remember to use the non-sweetened juice (about half an ounce for dogs). You may find it easier to get some cranberry powder (in capsules) and mix 1/4 of a teaspoon of the powder with your dog's food.

Here is a good natural product: Solid Gold Berry Balance for Cats and Dogs

Clean Water

Yes - clean filtered water is essential in battling urinary tract infections in dogs. If your dog does not drink enough water, she will not urinate a lot. This allows the bacteria to fester in the bladder and the urinary tract. If your dog does not drink enough water, try adding some water to her food.



References

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).


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