Canine Pyometra

What is a pyometra?

A pyometra is a disease of dogs in which the uterus fills with fluid and bacteria.  It is seen in middle age to older female dogs which have not been spayed.  The exact cause of the disease is unclear; however, the abnormalities seen are typical and easily diagnosed.

What causes a pyometra?

Most people believe there is a hormonal abnormality which leads to the secondary bacterial infection seen with a pyometra.  The belief is that a female intact dog goes through a typical heat cycle.  The hormone progesterone produced by the ovaries is excessive.  The uterus becomes overly sensitive to the progesterone and cysts begin to form on the lining of the uterus.  It is these cysts that cause fluid to fill inside the uterus.  Over time the fluid becomes infected and purulent.  The uterus itself can become extremely engorged and heavy.  In some cases, the uterus may even rupture.

What are Symptoms of a pyometra?

The symptoms vary.  Most dogs will show some vaginal discharge, but in cases where the cervix is closed, there may be no vaginal discharge.  Other symptoms include:

High Fever

High or Low White Blood Cell Count

Excessive Thirst

Excessive Urination

Lethargy

Loss of Appetite

Abdominal Discomfort

How is a pyometra diagnosed?

Physical Exam

Low WBC (could indicate “tissue sink” effect)

High WBC

Abdominal Radiograph

Abdominal Ultrasound

Vaginal Swab or Vaginal Smear and Cytology

How is a pyometra treated?

Immediate intervention is necessary to properly treat a pyometra.  Dogs with this condition are at risk of uterine rupture, sepsis, and death.  The recommended treatment is an ovarian hysterectomy (spay).  The removal of the uterus and ovaries is an extremely delicate procedure.  Care must be taken to avoid uterine rupture and often the uterus is very friable tissue. 

Since most pets are in overall poor condition, IV fluid therapies are often indicated. Dogs need antibiotics before and after surgery.  Pain medications are usually given post-operatively.

How is a pyometra prevented?

Prevention is the most important thing you can do for your female dog.  If you are not planning to breed your dog, then you should schedule to have her spayed at or before 6 months of age.

 

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The swollen pus filled uterus is removed from the abdomen

The cervix and both uterine horns are identified.  The uterus itself is inflammed and full of fluid.

An ovarian hysterectomy is performed

Care is taken not to rupture the fluid filled uterus.

The uterus and both ovaries are romoved.

The abdominal incision is closed.

Surgery

WARNING:  Photos on this page are very graphic and may be too much for some viewers.