Bladder problems in dogs are not uncommon; however, they can be extremely serious if not treated properly. The problems can consist of urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and canine cystitis.
The dog may not immediately show signs of discomfort, although with bladder infections in dogs there are various symptoms to look out for.
Symptoms of Canine Bladder Problems
Bladder infections in dogs can cause them to urinate in the house. This is less noticeable on younger dogs that may still be in the process of being house trained. However, if an older dog that is completely housetrained begins to urinate inside the house, this is a very good sign that there may be a problem.
Incontinence may also be a sign that the dog is suffering from bladder problems. If the dog appears to be unable to control their bladder or they are in fact passing water, this could be a very worrying sign of a bladder infection in your dog.
Bladder problems in dogs can also be diagnosed if the animal appears to be struggling to pass water, only passing a small amount of water, or if there is blood in the urine once passed. Any of these symptoms could be a sign of a bladder infection in dogs.
Bladder stones in dogs can also be severe. The most common of these is struvite stones with around 60% of all canine bladder stone problems being struvite. They can be dissolved through a change of diet; however, other stones such as calcium oxalate stones may need to be removed surgically.
Natural Remedies for Canine Bladder Problems
Ensuring the pet drinks plenty of water is very important. They may be reluctant to do so as they may associate drinking the water with passing the water, which could be painful for them.
Adding water to their wet food or gently syringing water into their mouth to ensure they have a sufficient quantity throughout the day may be necessary.
If the dog suffers from recurring bladder problems, many pet owners feel that herbal remedies are kinder, as they are often just as powerful as any prescribed medications but with very few of the side effects.
Some veterinarians are also happy to suggest herbal alternatives to medications for anyone who shows an interest in treating their dogs in this way.
- Garlic is a natural antibiotic. Some dogs might be put off having food that contains garlic due to the smell, but some dogs really love garlic’s flavor. For those who won’ttake regular garlic, there are odorless garlic capsules that are far more palatable and easier for the dog to swallow.
- Uva ursi and alfalfa can help to reduce the irritation in the mucosal linings by lowering the acidity in the urine itself. This will in turn make it less painful for the dog to pass water.
- Cranberry extract pills suitable for dogs can be bought at most health food stores as can bucchu, an African herb used to treat UTI’s.
- Echinachea is very popular with humans; however, it can also be beneficial for dogs by helping to remove traces of the infection.
Bladder problems in dogs can be very stressful for their masters. However, there are many excellent remedies to choose from to help your best friend feel better in no time.
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