Uterus Infection
Unspayed females are at risk of a uterus infection. This can be a life threatening situation. A pyometra can be classified as opened or closed. Open meaning a vaginal discharge is present, whereas with closed, there is no discharge present. A closed pyometra is more serious. The purulent discharge due to the infection is contained within the uterus, and with no drainage, the infection enters the blood stream sending the animal into toxic shock. An open pyometra is less of an emergency as the discharge is able to drain from the body, delaying the serious effects associated with a closed pyometra. An open pyometra however, does still require veterinary attention.
Signs of a pyometra include:
- depression/lethargy
- fever
- increased urination
- increased thirst
- decreased appetite
- discharge (bloody, red-brown or green-yellow) from the vulva if an open infection is present
- an recent heat cycle followed by any of these symptoms
These signs are common in dogs and cats. Dogs of any age can get a pyometra, but older dogs are more susceptible. Cats can be of any age. If you notice any of these signs, seek immediate veterinary assistance.
