Pyometra

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus that affects approx. 25% of unspayed female dogs and cats.  The Latin word “pyo” means pus and “metra” is the uterus, so pyometra is essentially an infected uterus. It’s caused by the growth of E.coli bacteria in the lining of the uterus over time, which originally travel up from the animal’s vulva when it is open during heat.

When your pet has pyometra, bacteria and toxins can leak into their bloodstream and cause life-threatening toxic effects.  This can eventually lead to the uterus dying, which in turn releases a large amount of pus and dead tissue into the abdomen.  If this is not treated, your pet will likely die.

Types of Pyometra

Dogs and cats can get one of two different types of pyometra infection. The first is an open pyometra, which means the cervix stays open and the infection is able to drain out. In a closed pyometra, however, the contents of the uterus aren’t able to escape and they can become toxic. A closed pyometra in cats and dogs is harder to diagnose and generally makes the animal more severely ill than an open one.

How do I prevent this from happening to my dog or cat?  

Have them spayed!