Understanding Proteus Bacteria Infections in Dogs: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

Dogs with proteus-based UTIs can progress into kidney failure without treatment.

The proteus mirabilis bacteria causes acute cystitis – inflammation of the urinary bladder – and concurrent urinary tract infections in dogs, says Dr. Debra Primovic of the PetPlace. Your veterinarian can recommend necessary medical treatment if your pet shows signs of the disease.

Symptoms

Canines with proteus-based urinary tract infections typically urinate more frequently and may show with blood or a cloudy consistency in the urine. They can be seen to frequently lick the urethral area and, in severe cases, can stop urinating entirely, advises Dr. Alleice Summers in "Common Diseases of Companion Animals."

Treatment

Veterinarians commonly treat proteus bacterial infections with the antibiotics enrofloxacin and gentamycin. Because these antibiotics can cause stomach upset and are not recommended for dogs with kidney disease VetInfo suggests that homeopathic treatments of berberis vulg, cantharis and staphysagris along with the anti-bacterial drugs Zeniquin and Naxcel can be helpful. Giving your pet extra fluids also helps flush out the bacteria.

Warning

A proteus infection occasionally causes UTI dogs to develop struvite stones. Stones need to be analyzed to determine their type, the bacterial component involved and the type of treatment needed to prevent recurrence.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.