Prostatitis in Dogs: Symptoms and Understanding

Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland, is a common ailment affecting male dogs, particularly those that are older and/or unneutered. While often manageable, it can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention. This article details the various signs of canine prostatitis, differentiating between acute and chronic forms, and highlights the importance of veterinary care.

Acute Prostatitis:

Acute prostatitis typically presents with a more dramatic set of symptoms, often signaling a significant infection. Dogs suffering from this condition frequently exhibit:

Fever: A noticeable increase in body temperature is a hallmark of acute inflammation. This elevated temperature is the body’s response to fighting the infection. Owners should monitor their dog’s temperature regularly using a rectal thermometer. Any significant elevation warrants immediate veterinary attention.

Lethargy and Depression: The dog may become unusually subdued, showing a marked decrease in energy levels and exhibiting disinterest in its surroundings. This lethargy is a common sign of systemic illness and discomfort.

Anorexia: Loss of appetite is a frequent companion to fever and overall malaise. The dog may refuse food or only consume small amounts, leading to potential weight loss if the condition persists.

Vomiting: In some cases, the infection can cause gastrointestinal upset, leading to vomiting. This is particularly concerning in conjunction with other symptoms, as it can indicate a severe infection.

Pain and Stiff Gait: The inflammation in the prostate gland can cause significant pain, impacting the dog’s ability to move comfortably. This can manifest as a stiff, stilted gait, sometimes described as a “high-stepping” posture. The dog may avoid activities that require significant exertion or movement.

Bloody or Purulent Discharge: This is a key indicator of infection. The discharge may be noticeable from the penis or be detected during urination. The presence of pus suggests a bacterial infection, while blood indicates inflammation and tissue damage.

Constipation and Tenesmus: The proximity of the prostate to the rectum can lead to discomfort during bowel movements. This can result in constipation and tenesmus, characterized by straining to defecate without success.

Difficulty Urinating: In severe cases, the inflammation can obstruct the urethra, leading to difficulty or even inability to urinate. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary intervention.

Chronic Prostatitis:

Chronic prostatitis is often more insidious, developing gradually with less dramatic symptoms. Many dogs with chronic prostatitis may exhibit few, if any, overt signs. However, some common indicators include:

Subtle Changes in Urination: The dog might show subtle changes in urination habits, such as increased frequency or straining. These changes may be easily missed by owners unless they are particularly observant of their dog’s routine.

Intermittent Bloody or Purulent Discharge: Unlike acute prostatitis, the discharge in chronic cases may be intermittent, appearing during flare-ups or exacerbations. The discharge may be subtle, requiring careful observation.

Enlarged Prostate on Palpation: Veterinary examination often reveals an enlarged prostate gland upon rectal palpation. While the gland may be enlarged, there may be minimal or no associated pain.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Chronic prostatitis can often lead to recurrent UTIs due to the proximity of the prostate to the urethra. This recurring pattern of infection should raise suspicion of underlying prostatitis.

Asymptomatic Cases: A significant proportion of dogs with chronic prostatitis remain asymptomatic throughout the course of the disease. This makes early detection challenging and relies heavily on routine veterinary check-ups and proactive screening.

Potential Complications:

Untreated prostatitis can lead to serious complications, including:

Prostatic Abscess: A localized collection of pus within the prostate gland. This requires surgical drainage.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate gland.

Prostate Cancer: While not a direct consequence in all cases, chronic inflammation can increase the risk of cancerous development in the prostate.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosing prostatitis involves a thorough veterinary examination, including rectal palpation of the prostate, urinalysis, and potentially blood tests and imaging techniques like ultrasound to assess the size and condition of the prostate. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to combat bacterial infections, pain management, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to drain abscesses. Neutering can be beneficial in reducing the risk and severity of future episodes. Early detection and prompt veterinary intervention are crucial for successful management and prevention of complications. Regular veterinary check-ups, especially for older male dogs, are essential in detecting early signs of prostatitis and addressing the problem before it becomes severe.