Duchess, a 7 year old unspayed female lab mix, presented to Lavale Veterinary Hospital with a history of vomiting, lethargy, excessive thirst, and discharge from her back end.  She had been in heat 4 weeks prior to her visit.  On examination, her temperature was 103.4, she was moderately dehydrated, and had a blood tinged vaginal discharge.  Blood work showed a high white blood cell count and dehydration. Ultrasound examination revealed a fluid filled thickened uterus (white arrows).

Duchess was started on fluids and antibiotics, and was taken to surgery where an ovariohysterectomy was performed (removal of the ovaries and uterus)

Duchess recovered quickly and is enjoying herself in all the snow we have gotten!

Pyometra is a bacterial infection of the uterus in unspayed female dogs and cats.  It usually occurs within 3-5 weeks of the normal heat cycle.  Owners may notice depression, anorexia, lethargy, vomiting, abdominal distension, and excessive drinking and urination.  There may or may not be a vaginal discharge depending on whether the cervix is open or closed at the time of infection.

Bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound examination, and owner history are often used to diagnose this condition.  The treatment for pyometra includes fluid and antibiotic therapy and surgery to remove the infected uterus.  This condition can be life threatening.  This is one of the main reasons Lavale Veterinary Hospital recommends having your pet spayed prior to her first heat cycle. Please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions regarding your pet's health.