Pyuria in Dogs

Pyuria is a condition that is best recognized by the appearance of white blood cells, which are detected in the urine, and is usually associated with a urinary tract infection, though it may be caused by other diseases as well. It is sometimes diagnosed when a urinalysis is performed to test for other conditions. Treatment varies depending on the source of the pyuria, though the underlying cause must be addressed in order to resolve the issue.

Because pyuria itself is a symptom of another disease, dogs will not show clinical signs of the pyuria alone. Some dogs with a urinary tract infection, which is the most common cause of pyuria, are asymptomatic, but most will present with symptoms.. These clinical signs include:

• Frequent urination
• Cloudy urine
• Strong smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Lethargy
• Increased thirst

When white blood cells are detected in a dog's urine, there is a high probability of an infection somewhere in the urinary tract. The infection may be anywhere within the tract, including the kidneys, the bladder, and the urethra. Pyuria can also be caused by kidney stones or by genital tract contamination, such as from the prostate gland or vagina. In some cases, noninfectious, or sterile, pyuria may occur, leading to white blood cells in the urine without any accompanying bacteria.

Pyuria is sometimes incidental finding, one that is diagnosed when the dog is examined for other conditions. Regardless of the reason for your visit, the veterinarian will conduct a physical examination and take a history of your dog's health. Based on findings and on the information you provide, further testing may be performed, including blood work and a urinalysis.

A urine culture is the standard diagnostic tool for discovering a urinary tract infection. The presence of pyuria, with or without accompanying bacteria, will be discovered through the urinalysis. A leukocyte esterase reaction tests for white blood cells in a dog's urine and will reveal pyuria if present.

Depending on the results of the tests and corresponding analysis by your pet's healthcare team, the veterinarian will make recommendations either for treatment or for more extensive testing to pinpoint the cause of the pyuria. Radiography, ultrasound, biopsy, or explorative surgery may be necessary to diagnose the underlying source of the pyuria.

Treatment for pyuria varies depending on the underlying cause. Most urinary tract infections can be addressed with medication, including antibiotics such as amoxicillin, ampicillin, cefovecin, and tetracycline. Antimicrobial drugs are typically effective against these infections and may be prescribed as pills or as injections. If your dog is resistant to antimicrobials, or if the pyuria is a symptom of another disease, the veterinarian will recommend another treatment accordingly.

Depending on the cause of the pyuria, recovery and management may vary. Provide your dog with a quiet place to rest regardless of the treatment, and make sure he has access to fresh water. If the veterinarian has prescribed medication, administer the full dose according to instructions. Always finish the course. Monitor your dog for worsening or new symptoms during this time, and let the veterinarian know if anything changes.

In most cases, the veterinarian may recommend a follow-up examination to ensure that the treatment is working and that your dog is recovering. This exam may include a urinalysis to test for pyuria and to check that any urinary tract infection has resolved.

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