The term "pyometra" comes from the Latin words "pyo," meaning pus, and "metra," meaning uterus.
It refers to an infected, pus-filled uterus. Toxins and bacteria leak across the uterine walls and into the bloodstream, causing life-threatening toxic effects.
Without treatment, death is inevitable and preventing this disease is one of the main reasons for routinely desexing female dogs.
Pyometra comes in two forms: "open" and "closed," with open being the more common.
In an open pyometra, the cervix is open, allowing pus to drain out, which results in a noticeable, foul-smelling discharge.
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In contrast, a closed pyometra occurs when the cervix is closed, trapping the toxic pus inside the body.
This can lead to the uterus becoming severely pressured and potentially rupturing.
Since there is no discharge in closed pyometra, the dog will be sicker due to the toxins, and it can be more difficult for veterinarians to diagnose.
Pyometra is more commonly seen in older, intact female dogs, typically 1-2 months after their heat cycle, but it can affect any intact female following their heat.
Essentially, if an intact female dog doesn't become pregnant during her heat, the uterus may continue to try to produce something.
This creates an environment where bacteria can grow, leading to a pyometra infection.
Symptoms include smelly, pus-like discharge from the vulva (if the cervix is open), vomiting, drooling, sudden weight loss, loss of appetite, lethargy, excessive thirst, or a lack of drinking altogether.
The standard treatment for pyometra is surgical removal of the infected uterus, known as an ovariohysterectomy, along with supportive care such as intravenous antibiotics, fluid therapy, and pain management.
This is the most effective and common approach to ensure the dog’s survival.
In some cases, pyometra can be treated medically using prostaglandin injections, which help to contract the uterus and expel the infected material.
However, this method is generally only recommended for dogs that are considered valuable for breeding, as it carries significant risks and is less effective than surgery.
Medically managing pyometra can be complicated, and the success rate is lower, with potential for recurrence or complications.
Surgical intervention is usually the safest and most reliable option.
Your dog’s health is in your hands and if you have an intact female dog and do not plan to breed with her, we strongly recommend having her desexed to prevent a pyometra from occurring.
