Yes, a urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs commonly causes them to feel tired, lethargic, and, in some cases, withdrawn or irritable. The discomfort and pain from the infection often lead to fatigue, reduced activity levels, and a decreased appetite.

Do UTIs make dogs tired?

Signs of a urinary tract infection in dogs include lethargy, loss of appetite, increased frequency of urination, and straining at urination.

How do dogs act when they have a UTI?

They also may strain to urinate, or cry or whine when urinating, as it can be painful. Sometimes blood may be visible in their urine. Dripping urine, or frequent licking of the genitals, may also signal that a UTI is present. Urine that has a very strong odor can also be a sign that your dog has an infection.

Does UTI cause extreme tiredness?

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing a general sense of unwellness can be an early sign of a UTI. Although fatigue is a common symptom of many conditions, it may be related to an underlying infection when it appears without a clear cause.

How long do dogs take to recover from UTI?

Ten to 21 days of an appropriate antibacterial agent for treatment of an uncomplicated lower UTI is often recommended. At least 30 to 60 days of antimicrobial therapy is usually needed to sterilize the upper urinary tract (kidneys and ureters) – sometimes long term bacteriological cure is not possible.

10 Safe and Effective Home Remedies for Your Dog's Urinary Tract Infection ✅

How to comfort a dog with a UTI?

Pain Medications or Anti-Inflammatories: A UTI can be very painful. It can also cause significant stress due to the constant urge to “go” even when the bladder is empty. These medications provide relief and help the bladder calm down so it can heal.

How quickly do dogs feel better after antibiotics?

After starting antibiotic treatment, most dogs start feeling better within one to two days.

How did my dog get a UTI?

The area around a dog's genitalia is exposed to bacteria from urine, feces, and other types of debris. When bacteria travel up through the urethra and into the bladder, an infection develops. E. coli is a very common cause of UTIs, although there are several other types of bacteria that can also cause infection.

What to feed a dog with UTI?

Feed high-moisture foods like wet canned food, lean proteins such as chicken or turkey, and consider adding cranberry supplements designed for dogs. Always ensure plenty of fresh water is available. Can diet alone cure a pet's UTI? No, bacterial urinary tract infections require antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.

Do dogs feel bad when they have a UTI?

If yes, then it's time to head to your veterinarian. Bladder infections and urinary tract infections are very uncomfortable and often painful for dogs. But, when caught and treated early these infections can often be cleared up quickly and easily so the sooner you can get your pup to the vet the better.

Can an infection make my dog lethargic?

Infectious Causes

Bacterial, viral, fungal, or even parasitic causes can all be a source of lethargy. All dependent on the individual cause, these infections can cause your pet to feel drained as their immune system fights against these specific causes to try and maintain what “normal” is for your pet.

What are signs a dog's UTI is serious?

Bloody or Cloudy Urine

The surest sign that your dog is suffering from a UTI (or something worse) is blood in their urine. If you ever spot blood in your dog's urine, then you need to take the time to have them tested by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Can UTI cause fatigue?

But beyond these classic signs, UTIs can also cause systemic effects such as low-grade fever, body aches, and fatigue. Your body works hard to fight the infection, which can drain energy and make you unusually exhausted.

What is the bad stage of UTI?

No stage of a UTI is good, but the advanced or “bad” stage of a UTI is a kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis. This stage typically includes more severe symptoms, such as flank pain, fever, chills, and significant fatigue.

How do you know when a UTI is spreading?

If the infection spreads to your kidneys, symptoms may include: Chills and shaking or night sweats. Fatigue and a general ill feeling. Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)

What are the red flags for UTI?

Common symptoms of urinary tract infection include: A burning feeling when urinating. A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away. Urinating often and passing small amounts of urine.

Do dogs get sleepy after antibiotics?

Antibiotics usually aren't the direct cause of a dog's tiredness. However, they can indirectly cause tiredness due to some of the side effects that taking antibiotics can have, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can all lead to feeling tired due to the effects on the body.

How long does it take for antibiotics to work on a dog with a UTI?

In most cases, dogs will show improvement in symptoms within a few days of starting treatment, but it's important to continue the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian to ensure the infection is completely eliminated.

How to know if antibiotics are working in dogs?

However, it's common for antibiotics to take some time to start showing noticeable effects. Antibiotics can take 24-48 hours to start working. No immediate improvement doesn't mean the treatment isn't working. Monitor for any adverse reactions and keep track of your dog's symptoms.

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