You may have noticed since your dog has been diagnosed with Diabetes, they may have been experiencing recurrent Urinary Tract Infections. Is there a link? Read on… 

A vital step in the treatment of diabetic dogs is to avoid infection.

Infections make it more difficult for the body to use insulin. The two common causes of infection in dogs with diabetes are urinary tract infections and dental disease. This article will focus on Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). UTIs are common in dogs with diabetes for several reasons; first, diabetic dogs have more dilute urine than non-diabetic dogs. The urine of a diabetic dog allows for bacterial growth since the chemicals present in concentrated urine, which normally kill bacteria, are diluted. Second, the urine of a diabetic dog contains excessive levels of sugar, which attracts bacteria and helps the bacteria to grow. Finally, dogs with diabetes will often have distended bladders because they drink more, this allows bacteria to be in contact with the bladder for a longer period of time than it should.

If left untreated, UTIs can move up the urinary system into the kidneys, causing more severe health issues.  UTIs can also cause struvite stones, or crystals, which can cause a serious blockage in your dog’s urinary tract. It is recommended that you have your dog checked for a UTI by having your veterinarian perform a urine culture twice a year.

The following are symptoms of UTIs, but please note that not all of these symptoms may be present.

• Difficulty going pee
• Peeing very small amounts of urine
• Increase frequency of urination
• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Fever
• Loss of bladder control
• Dribbling or dripping urine
• Painful urination
• Peeing in inappropriate places
• Constant licking of the urinary opening
• Strong smell to the urine
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Decrease in appetite
• Weight loss
• Severe back pain
• Increased water consumption

The most obvious symptom will be frequent, painful, difficult, or increased peeing. Always keep an eye out for fever and lethargy, which are strong indicators that an infection is present.

If your dog has UTI symptoms, make sure to bring them to the vet immediately. Your vet will likely prescribe an antibiotic, depending on the severity. I also suggest you support the dog’s immune system by a natural means.  The use of herbs, vitamins, and minerals is a good approach to reduce the risk of incidence of UTI and also decrease the symptoms of the illness.   

Here, at Diabetic Dog,  it is our mission to provide you with products and information to help ensure a rewarding life for you and your dog.  Keep an eye out for our new product, Diabetic Dog Urinary, available soon! 

By Marie B.

Research & Development