As pet owners, we want to make sure that our dogs are as happy and healthy as they can be. That’s why it’s essential to pick up any medical problems quickly and treat them accordingly. If you have been unlucky enough to experience a urinary tract infection (UTI), you’ll know just how uncomfortable and painful they can be.
Early detection is paramount to ensuring our pooches remain happy and healthy when it comes to urinary tract infections in dogs. Luckily, there are some great natural remedies around. Here we explore CBD oil, supplements, dietary changes, and herbal medications that might alleviate UTIs in dogs.
What Is a UTI?
Different organisms (such as Escherichia coli bacteria or an overgrowth of fungal yeast) cause these infections when they travel from the urethra to the bladder. In more extreme cases, they can impact the kidneys. Just like they can happen to humans, they can also occur in our four-legged friends. In fact, UTIs in dogs are pretty common.
Picking up signs of a UTI infection in your dog early and using some at-home treatments can often treat the infection. However, if the problem persists, it’s always best to consult a holistic or integrative veterinary professional. In more stubborn cases, when the bacteria have established, antibiotics might be needed. In severe cases, bladder stones might form, and your vet might perform a specialized procedure known as a urinalysis. This will determine the level of infection and help to find the best treatment solutions.
What Causes a UTI?
Several factors cause UTIs in dogs. Sometimes, infection points to more significant problems, including bladder infection, tumors of the urinary tract or the bladder, Cushing’s disease, trauma, diabetes, certain medications, prostate disease, stress, or congenital abnormalities. It’s always a good idea to book an appointment with your vet if at-home remedies aren’t working, as they’ll pick up any underlying medical issues that might need further care.
Are Certain Dogs More Prone to UTIs?
While any dog can get a UTI, they are more common in older females and dogs with sugar diabetes. Those who experience bladder stones may be more prone to UTIs too. Ongoing medication and treatment are helpful for recurrent infections, as is a holistic treatment plan that considers diet and supplements.
Dog UTI Symptoms
Before treating a suspected UTI, you’ll need to be sure that your dog has one. So, how do you know if your dog has a UTI? There are a few tell-tale signs:
- Frequent urination
- Strained urination (caused by pain)
- Blood in their urine
- Constant licking of the genital area
- Dripping urine
- Urine with a super strong odor
- Crying out when they urinate (a further sign of pain)
- A house-trained dog who suddenly starts urinating inside the home
Natural Remedies for UTIs in Dogs
If you are searching for an at-home remedy for a UTI in your dog, several treatments can reduce pain and potentially treat the problem.
CBD for UTIs in Dogs
Cannabidiol, aka CBD, is a potent compound used to treat inflammation and ease pain. This chemical is found in the cannabis plant and in recent years has gained great traction for its healing properties. Here we advocate a full spectrum of products that contain 3% or less of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as this compound is known for its medicinal properties.
