Pyometra

Pyometra is an infection in the uterus.  The uterus is filled with a toxic pus.  It usually  occurs after a female has finished her heat cycle.  It can occur at any age but happens more often in an older female.  There are two types of pyometra; open and closed.  The cervix is open and a purulent discharge is present with the more common type of open pyometra.  In cases of the closed pyometra, the cervix is closed.  In closed pyometra; there is no vaginal discharge, making diagnosis more difficult.  The dog also becomes sicker because the toxic pus is kept inside the uterus.  Some outward signs of the problem are lack of appetite, vomiting, excessive thirst,  increase in urination, strong unpleasant odor and the purulent discharge (with the open pyometra type).  Pyometra needs to be diagnosed and treated quickly, or the dog will die.  In the past, spaying was the only form of treatment.  Today a veterinarian can prescribe some antibiotics to get rid of the infection.  If antibiotics are used and are successful in eliminating the problem; the female should be bred when her next heat cycle occurs.