14/07/2026
What is a Pyometra?
Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus (womb) that affects entire (unspayed) female dogs. It can be ‘open’ where the cervix is open and pus can drip from the v***a or ‘closed’ where the uterus swells like a pus filled balloon within the body. Both are serious and require rapid veterinary intervention but a closed pyometra can lead to sepsis much quicker and is harder to diagnose.
Pyometra normally occurs in older bi***es that have had many seasons. This is because every time a bitch becomes into season the uterus wall becomes thickened and small cysts will form in the wall. Due to the hormonal shifts during a season and due to the cervix being open, bacteria can enter the uterus and set up an infection, forming pus.
Signs of a Pyometra
• Pus leaking from v***a/vagina
• Drinking more than usual
• Vomiting
• Bloated abdomen
• Lethargy (low energy)
• Not eating properly
• Collapse
Diagnosis
Will be on clinical signs and history alongside an ultrasound scan of the uterus and blood tests.
Treatment Surgery
If the dog is becoming septic due to the pus within the uterus, emergency surgery is often the recommended treatment option. The dog will need intravenous fluids to help overcome septic shock during the anaesthetic, strong pain relief and antibiotics. During the surgery the pus filled uterus and ovaries and removed.
Treatment Hormone Injections
If your dog has a ‘open’ or leaking pyometra a course of hormone injections alongside antibioitcs and anti-inflammatories can be an appropriate treatment option. The hormone injections cause the uterus to contract and eject the pus through the open cervix. Once the pus has been ejected the bitch can then have a normal spay before the next season.
