Fishy smell in dog's urethra

A fishy smell in a dog's urethra may indicate an infection, possibly caused by a vaginitis or urethritis. Owners should promptly treat their dogs, preferably by preparing an Elizabethan collar for them. Because the urethra is infected, dogs will feel very uncomfortable and constantly lick it, which may lead to further bacterial infections and worsen the condition.

Symptoms of Vaginitis

Include the following aspects. Abnormal discharge: dogs will not have secretions flowing out normally, but when they have vaginitis, there may be purulent or bloody secretions flowing out, and even a distinct odor. Itching and pain: due to itching, dogs may rub themselves or lick their external genitalia to relieve the itch.

Urethritis Symptoms

Urethritis generally presents with difficulties in urination, painful urination, cloudy urine (mixed with pus and blood), linear urine, dogs in distress, painful urinary dribbling, intermittent urine output due to inflammatory pain, frequent flicking of the male dog's penis during urination, and continuous opening and closing of the female dog's vulva. Sometimes, necrotic or shed urethral mucosa is discharged. During palpation, the dog's penis may be swollen and sensitive, and the urethral opening red and swollen. When exploring the urethra, the dog shows pain and restlessness, and it is difficult to insert a urinary catheter.

Urethritis Treatment

The treatment of dog urethritis must be individualized and should be based on the disappearance of clinical symptoms, abnormal urine sediment, and negative urine culture results. Generally, non-complicated urethritis should be treated for 2-3 weeks, with common antibiotics such as enrofloxacin used to treat infections, along with analgesics and urinary tract protectants. Stay hydrated and have a regular diet. If it is a complicated urinary tract infection, medication should be taken under a doctor's advice.

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