Pyometra

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This is an infection within the womb. It generally occurs in middle aged / older bitches and follows a season. It occurs more commonly in bitches that have not had a litter, especially if they have had a history of phantom pregnancies. It can result in abdominal swelling and there is usually a vaginal discharge that can vary from blood to pus. The bacteria within the womb produce toxins and these poison the body resulting in a range of signs – lethargy, a marked thirst, decreased appetite and possible vomiting and diarrhoea. This is a serious disease and if untreated may result in death from toxaemia.

What your veterinarian will want to know

When did you first notice the symptoms?
When was the dog’s last season?
Has she had pups in the past?
Has she had regular seasons in the past?
Has she had phantom pregnancies in the past?
Has she ever had drugs to prevent conception after a mismating?

What your veterinarian may do

The diagnosis may be made on clinical signs and the history alone, but confirmation can be made by X-ray or ultrasound. The number of white cells in the blood is very much increased in response to the bacterial infection present. Analysis of blood samples is also useful to calculate the amount of intra-venous fluid that may need to be given to stabilise the circulation prior to an anaesthetic.
The most common treatment is surgical removal of the womb and ovaries.