Practice Healthy Hygiene Habits
Preventing UTIs starts with practicing a few good bathroom and hygiene habits.
First, its important not to hold your urine for too long. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, resulting in infection.
Peeing after sexual intercourse can also of UTIs by preventing the spread of bacteria.
Additionally, those who are prone to UTIs should avoid using spermicide, as it has been linked to an increase in UTIs.
Finally, when using the toilet especially if you have a female urethra make sure you wipe front to back. Wiping from back to front can to the urinary tract and is associated with an increased risk of UTIs.
Benefits of healthy hygiene for UTI
Urinating frequently and after sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of UTI. Careful wiping when you use the toilet may also help decrease the risk of UTI.
Several natural supplements may decrease the risk of developing a UTI.
Here are a few supplements that have been studied and are all available in capsule form:
- D-Mannose.D-Mannose is a type of sugar that is found in cranberries. Research suggests its effective in treating UTIs and preventing recurrence.
- Cranberry extract. Like cranberry juice, cranberry extract works by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.
- Garlic extract. shows garlic and garlic extract to have antimicrobial properties, so they it may be able to block the growth of bacteria to prevent UTIs.
Renal Disease And Renal Failure
Variable degrees of chronic interstitial nephritis are commonly found at necropsy in geriatric ferrets.41 Advanced interstitial nephritis, as well as pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis, and immune complexmediated glomerulonephropathy, can cause renal failure.63 In one authors experience , multiple cases of chronic kidney disease have been diagnosed in a group of young ferrets fed raw meat , which may suggest a dietary or familial cause. Although uncommon, renal tumors are another potential cause of chronic kidney disease in ferrets.8 Chronic kidney disease may result in nephrotic syndrome, in which proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia lead to peripheral edema, ascites, or both.
External surface of kidneys in a ferret with chronic kidney disease. Hyperemia of the renal cortex in a ferret with canine distemper virus infection.
Clinical signs of renal failure may be nonspecific but may also include ulcers, signs of GI abnormalities , ataxia, ascites, and peripheral edema. Physical examination findings can include dehydration, pallor, irregularities or asymmetry in the size and shape of the kidneys, and increased blood pressure. Polyuria and polydipsia may be seen with chronic kidney disease, whereas AKI is usually characterized by oliguria or anuria.
How Can I Treat A Uti At Home For My Dog
Here are some at-home dog UTI treatment options:
Honest Paws Pre+ Probiotics for Dogs. This dog UTI treatment is made with prebiotics and probiotics for gut health. A dogs health begins in the digestive system Honest Paws ensures there are healthy bacteria for a healthy gut biome to promote better and faster recovery. The probiotics inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, while the prebiotics stimulates the growth of healthy bacteria. The formula uses antioxidant-rich foods to promote immune system function and inulin, their natural prebiotic, to promote the growth of 6 strains of healthy bacteria that help to strengthen the immune system and promote good digestion.
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Disorders Of The Urinary And Reproductive Systems
Chapter 4 Disorders of the Urinary and Reproductive Systems
Reference values have been established for endogenous and exogenous creatinine and insulin clearance tests used to evaluate glomerular filtration in ferrets.18,19 Although reference values for urine protein/creatinine ratios have not been established for ferrets, UP:C accurately reflects protein excretion in cats and dogs over a 24-hour period regardless of sex, urine collection method, time of day, or whether the animal has been fasted or fed. Canine reference values are generally less than 1.0 and cats are less than 0.6.68
Why Are Females At A Higher Risk For Utis
People with female reproductive organs are at a higher risk for UTIs because of their anatomy. The female urethra, the tube which empties urine from your bladder out of your body, is shorter than someone born with male anatomy.
The female urethra is also quite close to female reproductive organs. That means bacteria from sexual intercourse as well as products like spermicide can be in close contact with the urethra and bladder.
Females also experience menopause and pregnancy. These two biological events change the bacteria in your reproductive and digestive tracts and create conditions that make UTIs more likely.
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Are There Any Potential Side Effects
Common side effects include gastrointestinal effects such as lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious side effects include allergic reaction characterized by skin rash, fever, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, incoordination while walking, or prolonged lack of appetite .
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
How Is Amoxicillin Given
Amoxicillin is given by mouth in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid suspension. It can be given with or without food, however, if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food. Give the medication for the entire prescribed duration unless otherwise directed. Measure liquid forms carefully, and shake well before administering.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours. While effects may not be noted outwardly, gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.
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Urolithiasis: Diagnosing Urinary Tract Obstructions In Ferrets
In addition to their mischievous nature and affinity for PVC pipes and socks, ferrets are identifiable by unique physiology that predisposes them to a variety of renal diseases pet owners need to be on the lookout for. If your ferret seems to be straining to urinate, it is worthwhile to take your furry friend to a ferret veterinarian since your ferret may have a condition called urolithiasis. Urolithiasis is painful and if left untreated can result in dangerous urogenital complications, and so early identification and intervention is beneficial.
Urinary Tract Infections In Cats
Urinary tract issues in cats can cause your feline friend severe discomfort, and in some cases can be life-threatening. Today, our South Wilton vets discuss the symptoms and causes of feline urinary tract disease and stress the importance of seeing a vet as soon as possible to have your cat treated.
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Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Your cat has been diagnosed with lower urinary tract disease or a bladder infection. There can be several different causes for this, and several different forms of treatments.
Bacterial Cystitis
- Cause. This is the most commonly thought of cause of bladder infections, but it is usually secondary to another cause.
- This happens when urine, which is normally sterile and anti-bacterial, is affected such that bacteria that are always present in the urethra are able to get into the bladder and cause infection.
- Most common reasons for this are very dilute urine from chronic kidney disease or diabetes, or blood in the urine from crystals, stones, interstitial cystitis or trauma.
Urinary Crystals / Stones
Antibiotics
Should Uti Treatment Vary According To Whats Causing The Infection
Your UTI treatment may vary according to whats causing the infection. Certain UTIs, especially chronic and recurring ones, will need antibiotic treatment as opposed to simple home remedies.
If youre prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, a healthcare professional may choose an antibiotic thats specific to the type of bacteria thats triggering your infection.
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Treatment Of Bladder Urinary Tract Infections
The specific intervention depends on the severity of the symptoms. In many instances, healthy patients who have a urinary tract infection but have no symptoms require no treatment at all. Such asymptomatic UTIs typically resolve within two to three days.
If urinary tract infection symptoms are presentsuch as a burning sensation during urination or an increased need to urinatetreatment usually consists of antibiotic medications, which are prescribed for three to 14 days. They include:
- Trimethoprim: Trimethoprim is the standard treatment for urinary tract infections in otherwise-healthy adults. It is one of the more potent UTI antibiotics, so most patients only require a three-day course. Trimethoprim is generally well-tolerated with few side effects, which generally include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea/constipation or stomach pain.
- Nitrofurantoin: Nitrofurantoin is the second most commonly prescribed antibiotic for bladder UTIs. It usually requires a longer course than trimethroprim , and is usually well tolerated but should not be taken by anyone with kidney disease. Side effects include nausea and vomiting.
- Cephalosporins: Cephalosporins are often used as a first-line of treatment in patients that have upper urinary tract infections involving the ureters or kidneys. It is usually taken for seven to 10 days. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach and diarrhea.
Advancements In Ferret Urolithiasis Diagnostics
Veterinarians can often physically detect calculi buildup, and can also physically detect Veterinarians can often physically detect calculi buildup, and can also physically detect if your ferrets bladder is distended due to urinary obstruction . Additionally, tools used for detection include abdominal radiographs, abdominal ultrasounds, complete blood count, biochemical analysis, urinalysis, and urine bacterial testing .
Considering the importance of understanding if your ferrets urolithiasis is complicated by bacterial infections, diagnostic tools are critical in delivering quality clinical care. Urease-producing bacteria are of particular concern, and consequently, the antibiotics used should be chosen to most efficiently target opportunistic pathogens . Although culture-based urinalysis has historically been lauded as the convention, scientific research has provided increasing evidence for the diagnostic benefits of Next-Gen sequencing technology. Conventional urinalysis has significant limitations in sensitivity to various microorganisms, as many remain undetected by culture methods . The inability for culture-based urinalysis to detect various microorganisms can result in no growth cultures despite symptomatic UTI presentations . This is particularly problematic in cases of antibiotic-resistant strains of opportunistic pathogens, and so having the diagnostic knowledge to assign appropriate medical intervention is key .
References:
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Are There Any Drug Interactions I Should Be Aware Of
The following medications should be used with caution when given with amoxicillin: bacteriostatic antimicrobials, methotrexate, probenecid, or warfarin. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications that your pet is taking.
Amoxicillin may also interact with certain urine glucose tests and cause false positive results.
Symptoms Of Lower Urinary Tract Infection In Ferrets
A lower urinary tract infection will cause the tissues of the urethra to swell and inflame, causing a great deal of pain to the ferret. The exterior appearance of the urinary system may look red, swollen and irritated. Pet owners may notice their ferret is using the litter pan more frequently, but little to no urine passes. Upon urination, the ferret may vocalize, strain to urinate, and pass traces of blood or pus. The pet may appear tired from the constant feeling of needing to urinate and may display signs of depression. Additional signs of a ferret lower urinary tract infection pet owners should watch for include the following:
- Inflamed vaginal or penile external organs
- White or yellowish discharge
- Redness of the urinary tissues
- Inability to urinate
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Can Dog Uti Go Away On Its Own
It is not likely for a dogs UTI to go away on its own.
It is always recommended that if your dog exhibits signs of a UTI such as straining to urinate, increased frequency in urination, licking of the genital area, and fever, then you should seek veterinary care.
Urinary tract infections are not only unlikely to go away on their own. Without a dog UTI treatment, they can worsen or even lead to complications.
Bacterial Cystitis In Ferrets
Bacteria invade and colonize in the urinary bladder and/or the upper portion of the urethra when the local defense system, which helps protect against infection, is impaired. Symptoms related to this type of bacterial infection include inflammation of the affected tissue and urinary difficulties.
Ferrets of all ages can be affected, but vulnerability increases as the animal gets older. In such cases, stone formation, prostate disease, and tumors are frequently seen. Additionally, females are more susceptible to bacterial infections of the lower urinary tract than males.
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Management Of Breeding Ferrets
Successful breeding requires constant supervision during gestation, parturition, and lactation. Breeders should monitor jills closely for any change in appetite or body condition, particularly late in gestation.4, 7
Place the pregnant jills cage in a quiet area well before parturition. Minimizing stress is particularly important in young primiparous jills. Avoid environmental stressors such as excessive heat. Room temperature should not exceed 70°F . Place a heat lamp over only part of the nesting box so that the jill and kits can select warmth as necessary. The risk of poor mothering also increases with crowding or unusual noise and nearby activity. Jills become excited and may bury the kits in bedding or place them in a pile in a corner or in food or water containers. Some jills will cannibalize the first few or all of their kits as they are born. Handling kits does not appear to cause rejection of the litter.7
The jill must also be able to easily enter and exit the nesting box without traumatizing her mammary glands. Shredded aspen shavings, recycled paper bedding, or small cloth towels are practical choices for whelping nest substrate. Do not use large towels because kits can get lost in them.7
Feed jills proper nutrition containing 36% to 40% animal-based protein and 18% to 20% fat.26 Make food and fresh water available at all times.
Feline Urinary Tract Disease
FLUTD is an umbrella term that refers to numerous clinical symptoms. FLUTD can cause issues in your cats urethra and bladder and can often lead to obstructions in the urethra which can prevent your cat from emptying their bladder properly. If left untreated, a bladder obstruction can be a life-threatening health issue.
If your kitty is suffering from FLUTD, urinating can be difficult, painful, or impossible. They may also urinate more frequently, or in inappropriate areas outside their litter box .
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What Happens If A Dogs Uti Goes Untreated
If a dogs UTI goes untreated, it is likely to develop more serious complications that can end up being life-altering or threatening. If left alone, a UTI can develop into kidney stones, bladder stones, and lower urinary tract dysfunction that can lead to recurrent UTIs.
If allowed to become severe, it can lead to things like Cushings disease, a condition caused by steroid treatment for inflammation associated with a urinary tract infection. This disease can damage the kidneys and cause the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol, a stress hormone.
Although it is possible, it is unlikely for a UTI to completely go away without medicinal intervention. Whenever a dog exhibits symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it is always best to visit a doctor of veterinary medicine right away.
Urinary tract infections are painful, uncomfortable, and sometimes outright dangerous for dogs, and getting it taken care of promptly can save you some expensive vet bills in the future and spare your dog some potentially harmful side effects of an untreated UTI.
How Do You Know If The Dog Uti Treatment Is Working
Knowing if the dog UTI treatment is working is relatively easy. They will display fewer and weaker symptoms like less whimpering while urinating, less frequent bathroom trips, and more transparent urine.
When treating with medication, symptoms should start to subside within 48 hours, and when treating at home, it is often expected to see improvement within one week.
Within these time frames, your dog will experience less discomfort and better urination, so keep an eye on how severe your dogs symptoms are and note any improvements shown after dog UTI treatment has begun.
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