Pyometra in Dogs: Here's What You Need To Know

What Are the Signs of Pyometra in Dogs?

While symptoms of pyometra can vary, they may include:²

• Cream-colored or bloody vaginal discharge
• Lethargy
• Poor appetite
• Increased thirst
• Increased urine production
• A distended or painful stomach
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Pale gums
• Weakness or collapse

Pyometra will usually appear as either an “open” or “closed” form, which may affect the severity of the symptoms. An open pyometra occurs when the female’s cervix is open, while a closed pyometra involves a closed cervix.²

In a closed pyometra, fluid and pus from the infection accumulate in the dog’s abdomen and cause distention. The dog’s circulation may then absorb the bacteria. In this case, the dog’s symptoms often appear rapidly and are usually quite severe.^2,4 In an open pyometra, vaginal discharge occurs.² The discharge may have a foul odor, which could smell like fish. You may find discharge under the dog’s tail or in areas where your dog sits or lies.⁴ Of course, if your dog begins to exhibit signs of potential pyometra, seek veterinary assistance as quickly as possible.

How to Prevent a Uterus Infection in Dogs

You can prevent pyometra if you have your dog spayed before infection can develop.² During surgery, the veterinarian will remove the dog’s uterus and ovaries, which eliminates the space where pyometra can develop.

If you have MetLife Pet Insurance that includes a Preventive Care add-on, your policy may help cover the costs of your dog’s spay surgery. Often, spaying your dog while they are younger and healthy is a better way to avoid the potential problems and costs that may arise from a serious pyometra later.²

Can a Dog Survive Pyometra?

The short answer is yes, dogs can survive pyometra with medical treatment.¹ Without veterinary care, however, pyometra can cause multiple issues that may prove fatal.⁴

For example, bacteria from the infection will often release toxins that may affect the dog’s kidneys, cause increased urination, and impact the way the dog’s body retains fluid.⁴ The dog may also develop sepsis and extreme infection.^2,4

If they suspect pyometra, the vet will likely order diagnostic tests, like:²

• Ultrasounds
• X-rays
• Blood work
• Urine tests
• Vaginal cytology (also known as a vaginal smear⁵)

Treating Pyometra in Dogs

Vets usually treat pyometra with an ovariohysterectomy (i.e., by spaying the dog). Your dog may also require IV fluids and antibiotics following the operation.²

In limited cases, your vet may be able to treat the dog with injections of the hormone prostaglandin, along with fluids and antibiotics. However, this course isn’t available for severely ill dogs or those with a closed pyometra. Moreover, your dog may still need surgery if this treatment doesn’t succeed.²

Naturally, diagnosing and treating your dog’s pyometra will come at a cost. Fortunately, if you have pet insurance from MetLife Pet, your policy may help cover some or all of the necessary treatment costs.

What are some of the costs of treating pyometra?

The emergency costs of treating your dog’s pyometra may vary. Below are a few examples of what these costs could look like:

Keep in mind, these costs may depend on factors like your dog’s size, where you live, the severity of their pyometra, and other factors. However, being able to use dog insurance at this time may help you alleviate some of the strain on your wallet.

MetLife Pet May Help You Cover Pyometra Costs

If your dog has pyometra, you don’t want to spend time worrying about costs instead of taking care of your pet. Fortunately, pet insurance may help you cover many of the costs related to treating this condition. Take, for example, the story of Bailey, a 4-year-old mixed breed who underwent surgery for pyometra. Bailey’s MetLife Pet policy was able to cover $1,130 of the cost of her $1,400 claim, leaving Bailey’s parents free to focus on her recovery instead of the vet bill.⁷

Your dog insurance policy from MetLife Pet may be able to help you reduce your veterinary bills in much the same way. Learn more about how pet insurance works, then get a free quote to see how much it costs.