Vaginal Bleeding in Dogs
Vaginal bleeding in dogs, also known as vaginal bleeding, is the discharge of blood from the vulva of a female dog. This can be due to a variety of physiological or pathological causes and often requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian to determine the cause.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
In dogs, vaginal bleeding can have various causes, ranging from natural physiological processes to serious medical conditions. One of the most common reasons for vaginal bleeding is the dog’s natural reproductive cycle, also called estrus or heat. During this time, which occurs every six to eight months, there may be slight to moderate bleeding, which is completely normal.
However, health problems can also cause Bleeding. Infections of the urogenital tract, such as bacterial infections or cystitis, can lead to Bleeding. Pyometra, a serious uterine inflammation, is another possible cause that often occurs in older, unspayed female dogs. Tumors or polyps in the uterus or vagina can also cause Bleeding.
Traumatic injuries resulting from accidents or abuse can also cause vaginal bleeding. In some cases, a blood clotting disorder or a systemic disease such as liver disease may be the cause. Foreign objects that penetrate the genital tract can also cause injuries that bleed.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Altered behavior: Female dogs that lose blood from the vagina often show changes in behavior, such as restlessness or increased Licking in the genital area.
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Swelling of the vulva: A Swelling vulva can be an accompanying symptom, especially during estrus. In other causes, the Swelling may indicate inflammation.
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Altered discharge: In addition to blood, there may also be an abnormal discharge from the vagina, which may be purulent or slimy and indicates an infection.
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Frequent urination: An increased frequency of urination may indicate cystitis or irritation of the urinary tract.
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Loss of appetite and Lethargy: In severe cases such as pyometra, loss of appetite and Müdigkeit can occur, indicating a systemic disease.
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Fever: An Increased body temperature can be a sign of infection or inflammation.
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Abdominal pain: The dog may show signs of discomfort or Schmerzen in the abdominal area, which occurs with intra-abdominal problems.
When to visit the vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted if the Bleeding is severe or lasts longer than two weeks, as this may indicate a serious medical problem. Also, if the Bleeding is accompanied by other worrying symptoms such as Fever, loss of appetite, or Lethargy, an immediate veterinary examination is necessary.
In young female dogs who bleed unexpectedly outside of the normal estrous cycle, or in older, unspayed female dogs, there is also cause for concern and should be clarified. Bleeding that occurs after a trauma or accident also requires immediate examination.
If the Bleeding is accompanied by a foul-smelling discharge, especially if it is purulent, this may indicate an infection or pyometra that requires urgent treatment.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
The detection of symptoms by the pet owner is the first step in determining whether a veterinary examination is necessary. A close look at the color, amount, and smell of the blood, as well as the dog’s behavior, can provide valuable clues.
The veterinarian will usually begin with a thorough physical examination to assess the dog’s general health. A vaginal examination can be performed to identify injuries or abnormal structures.
Additional diagnostic tests may include blood tests to detect signs of infection or systemic disease. An ultrasound or X-rays of the abdomen can be performed to identify internal abnormalities such as uterine changes or tumors.
A urine test may be necessary to rule out urinary tract infections or other urological problems. In some cases, a biopsy of suspicious tissue samples may also be required to diagnose tumors or other pathological changes.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
The pet owner can take some steps to improve the dog’s comfort while waiting for veterinary treatment. This includes keeping the dog’s genital area clean and dry to prevent infection and minimize irritation.
Applying special dog pants or protective panties can help catch Bleeding and keep the environment clean. It is important to keep the dog calm and avoid strenuous activities that could worsen the Bleeding.
The pet owner should avoid administering medications or treatments themselves without consulting a veterinarian, as this could worsen the situation or cause complications. It is crucial to follow the veterinarian’s instructions and consistently apply all prescribed medications or treatments.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.