kidney disease dog blood in urine

What Does Blood in Dog Urine Mean?

Few things set off alarm bells in our heads like the sight of blood. Finding blood anywhere on your dog is disconcerting, including finding it in your dogs urine.

There are many different diseases and conditions that can cause blood in dog urine, including urinary tract infections, trauma, toxins, like rat poison, and in rare cases, even cancer. Here is what you need to know about this symptom, and what it could mean for your dog.

What Is Hematuria in Dogs?

The technical term for blood in urine is hematuria. The presence of these red blood cells in your dogs urine can be detected either visually or by using diagnostic testing.

Oftentimes, we dont notice bloody urine right away. After all, its not like we really want to be staring at our dogs while they pee. Sometimes, though, bloody urine is obvious, especially if your dog urinates on a light-colored surface, like snow, carpet, or the floor. This discoloration can present as almost normal or amber, orange, red, or brown.

When blood in the urine isnt this obvious, it can take a diagnostic test to discover red blood cells. Your dogs urine may appear normal and still contain blood. There are other conditions that can lead to discolored urine. The first thing you should do if you notice your dogs urine is a funny color is contact your veterinarian.

Causes of Hematuria in Dogs

Blood in urine is one of those symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea, which are present in a wide range of conditions. Here are a few of the conditions that can lead to blood in your dogs urine:

• Clotting disorders
• Toxins, like certain kinds of rat poison
• Thrombocytopenia
• Kidney diseases such as kidney stones, cystic kidney disease, structural disease, and familial kidney disease
• Trauma
• Nephritis (inflammation of the kidney)
• Inflammatory disease
• Infections such as urinary tract infections
• Anatomical malformations in the kidney or urinary tract
• Infectious diseases
• Chemotherapy
• Estrus
• Tumors
• Cancer

This list can feel a little overwhelming. But this is where your veterinarian steps in to help with their diagnostic differentials.

Diagnosing Hematuria in Dogs

Diagnosing the cause behind your dogs hematuria can be complicated. But most veterinarians are well equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to pinpoint the underlying condition.

You can help, too, by seeing for yourself if your dogs urine is discolored. The Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, Dr. Jerry Klein, recommends placing a piece of white paper or cloth beneath your dog as they urinate. This will show you if the urine is discolored. He also recommends attempting to collect a urine sample in a container for your veterinarian. If you cant get the sample to your veterinarian immediately, he suggests placing it in the refrigerator until you can take it to your vet.

Your vet will start with by conducting a thorough history: asking about your dogs frequency or change in amount of urination; straining while urinating; frequency or change in thirst; if your dog experiences pain when urinating.

Your veterinarian will likely then conduct a physical examination. In the exam, they may check your dogs temperature; visually inspect your dogs genital areas; palpate your dogs abdomen, bladder, kidneys, and prostate; and check your dog for any other symptoms that appear out of the ordinary, like bruising.

Once the physical examination is complete, there are several different diagnostic tests that your veterinarian may perform, depending on the findings of the physical exam and any other symptoms your dog may present with.

Some of these tests may include a dipstick colorimetric test, urinalysis, ultrasound, radiograph, blood pressure measurement, catheterization, a blood chemistry workup, coagulation profile, cystourethroscopy, endoscopy, biopsies, and in some cases, exploratory surgery.

These tests will provide your veterinarian with the information they need to narrow down the potential causes of the blood in your dogs urine.

Hematuria as a Symptom of Cancer

Anytime cancer appears in a list of possible causes, it makes us feel a little panicky. Luckily, cancer of the kidneys and urinary tract is rare in dogs. However, it does occur, especially in breeds of dogs that may be predisposed to theses cancers, like West Highland White Terriers, Scottish Terriers, and Shetland Sheepdogs. The most common type of urinary tract cancer is transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).

So how do you know if the blood in your dogs urine is a symptom of cancer or another condition?

Aside from blood in the urine, there are some other symptoms of cancer of the kidneys or urinary tract. Weight loss, loss of appetite, depression, and fever are all symptoms of kidney cancer. Difficulty urinating, painful urination, frequent urination that only produces small amounts of urine, and intractable secondary bacterial urinary tract infections, on the other hand, could be a sign of a cancer of the urinary tract, such as TCC. The best way to find out if the blood in your dogs urine is a sign of cancer or another disease is to bring your dog in to your veterinarian for further testing.

TCC used to have a very poor prognosis. Recent developments in the veterinary field, however, are improving this prognosis with a combination of medications, like the chemotherapy drug mitoxantrone and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) piroxicam, and surgery.

Best of all, diagnosis is now easier with the free-catch urine analysis test: CADET BRAF Mutation Detection Assay. The CADET BRAF Mutation Detection Assay is a non-invasive, free-catch urine analysis test. It can detect canine bladder cancer months before symptoms present, allowing for the earliest therapeutic intervention.

Treating Hematuria in Dogs

Treatment options for hematuria depend entirely on the cause. Your veterinarian will come up with a treatment plan crafted to your dogs needs, overall health, and any pre-existing conditions. If you suspect that your dog might have blood in their urine, contact your veterinarian.

Dog Passing Blood Clots In Urine

[ad_1]Dogs passing blood clots in their urine can be a worrying and stressful experience for pet owners. Seeing your furry friend in pain or discomfort can be heartbreaking, and its important to understand the possible causes and treatment options available. In this article, we will delve into this concerning issue and provide insights from professionals in the field to shed light on the matter.

When a dog passes blood clots in urine, it is often a sign of an underlying health issue that needs attention. This could be a result of various conditions such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, kidney disease, or even cancer. Its crucial to seek veterinary care immediately to determine the cause and provide the necessary treatment.

One of the professionals in the field, a veterinarian specializing in internal medicine, explains, Blood clots in a dogs urine can indicate a serious health problem that requires prompt attention. Its important to bring your pet to the vet for a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying issue.

Another expert, a veterinary urologist, emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment, stating, Blood clots in urine can be a red flag for urinary tract problems or other conditions. Timely intervention is key to preventing further complications and ensuring the well-being of your pet.

Here are 7 interesting trends related to dogs passing blood clots in urine:

1. Breed Predisposition: Certain dog breeds may be more prone to developing urinary tract issues that can lead to blood clots in urine. Breeds like Dalmatians, Bulldogs, and Scottish Terriers are known to have a higher risk of bladder stones or infections.

2. Age Factor: Older dogs are more susceptible to urinary problems due to age-related changes in their organs and immune system. Senior dogs may experience issues such as kidney disease or prostate enlargement, which can cause blood clots in urine.

3. Gender Differences: Male dogs are more likely to develop urinary tract obstructions or infections that can result in blood clots in urine. This is because male dogs have a longer and narrower urethra, making them prone to blockages.

4. Diet and Hydration: Poor diet or inadequate water intake can contribute to the formation of bladder stones or crystals in a dogs urinary tract, leading to blood in the urine. A balanced diet and sufficient hydration are essential for maintaining urinary health.

5. Stress and Anxiety: Dogs experiencing stress or anxiety may be more susceptible to urinary issues, including blood clots in urine. Environmental changes, separation anxiety, or fear can impact a dogs overall health and exacerbate urinary problems.

6. Medication Side Effects: Certain medications or treatments may have side effects that affect a dogs urinary system, causing blood clots in urine. Its important to consult with a veterinarian about potential risks and alternative options.

7. Genetic Factors: Some dogs may inherit genetic predispositions to urinary tract disorders or kidney problems that can lead to blood in the urine. Understanding the breeds genetic history can help in identifying potential health risks.

Here are 15 common concerns and answers related to dogs passing blood clots in urine:

1. Is blood in a dogs urine always a cause for concern?

While occasional blood in a dogs urine may not always be alarming, persistent or recurrent blood clots should prompt a visit to the vet for evaluation.

2. What are the common causes of blood clots in a dogs urine?

Urinary tract infections, bladder stones, kidney disease, prostate issues, or cancer are some of the common causes of blood clots in a dogs urine.

3. How is the underlying cause of blood clots in a dogs urine diagnosed?

Diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, blood tests, imaging studies (ultrasound, X-rays), and urine culture can help identify the underlying cause of blood in a dogs urine.

4. Can bladder stones be treated in dogs passing blood clots in urine?

Depending on the size and composition of bladder stones, treatment options may include dietary changes, medications, or surgical removal.

5. Are there preventive measures to reduce the risk of blood clots in a dogs urine?

Providing fresh water, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and prompt veterinary care for any signs of urinary issues can help prevent blood clots in a dogs urine.

6. Can urinary tract infections be a recurring problem in dogs?

Yes, urinary tract infections can recur in dogs, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed or if the dog has predisposing factors such as anatomical abnormalities.

7. How can kidney disease contribute to blood clots in a dogs urine?

Kidney disease can impair the kidneys ability to filter waste and maintain electrolyte balance, leading to blood in the urine and other symptoms.

8. Are there home remedies for dogs passing blood clots in urine?

While home remedies may offer temporary relief, its essential to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause.

9. Can stress or anxiety trigger blood clots in a dogs urine?

Stress and anxiety can impact a dogs overall health, including the urinary system, and may contribute to the development of blood clots in the urine.

10. What role does diet play in managing urinary issues in dogs?

A balanced diet with adequate water intake can help prevent urinary problems and maintain a healthy urinary tract in dogs.

11. Can medications cause blood clots in a dogs urine?

Some medications may have side effects that affect the urinary system, leading to blood in the urine. Its important to discuss potential risks with a veterinarian.

12. Is surgery always necessary for treating bladder stones in dogs?

Depending on the size and location of bladder stones, surgical removal may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

13. Can genetic factors influence the development of urinary issues in dogs?

Genetic predispositions to urinary tract disorders or kidney problems can increase the risk of blood clots in a dogs urine. Understanding the breeds genetic history is important.

14. How can pet owners monitor their dogs urinary health at home?

Observing changes in urination patterns, frequency, color, or consistency of urine can help pet owners detect early signs of urinary issues in their dogs.

15. When should a pet owner seek emergency veterinary care for blood clots in a dogs urine?

If a dog exhibits signs of severe pain, difficulty urinating, lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite along with blood clots in the urine, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

In summary, dogs passing blood clots in their urine is a serious health concern that requires prompt veterinary intervention. Understanding the potential causes, trends, and treatment options can help pet owners navigate this challenging situation with their furry companions. Remember, early detection and proper care are essential for ensuring the well-being and longevity of your beloved pet.[ad_2]