Content
- Balanoposthitis
- Causes of balanoposthitis in dogs
- Symptoms of balanoposthitis in a dog
- Treatment of balanoposthitis
Illnesses in the dog's penis are very frequent and cause a lot of discomfort. If your dog is licking his penis more than usual or there is an exaggerated discharge, these could be signs that something is being bothered him.
Your dog may have been injured, may have a bacterial infection or even a tumor. There are dozens of possible diseases in a dog's penis. One of the most common problems in dog penises, especially in unneutered dogs, is balanoposthitis, an inflammation of the penis and foreskin. In this PeritoAnimal article, we'll explain everything you need to know about dog balanoposthitis - causes, symptoms and treatment.
Balanoposthitis
Balanoposthitis is characterized by inflammation of the glans penis (balanite) and the inflammation of the foreskin mucosa (postite). In most cases, the agents responsible for this infection usually exist in the ecosystem present in the foreskin, without causing any problems. However, as these microorganisms proliferate more in relation to others, an infection called balanoposthitis arises.
This inflammation can occur at any stage of the dog's life, including puppies, but it is more common in older animals.
Causes of balanoposthitis in dogs
There are different factors that can be involved in balanoposthitis in dogs. The most common cause is the presence of opportunistic bacteria that cause an infection. In most cases, the bacteria responsible for balanoposthitis in dogs is Escherichia coli. However, there are reports of cases in which other bacteria were responsible, such as: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphlococcus aureus and Klebsiella sp. These bacteria are naturally present in the dog's foreskin but when given a chance, they reproduce and the excess causes problems (that's why they are called opportunistic bacteria).
Other microorganisms commonly involved in balanoposthitis in dogs are the mycoplasma. species of Ureaplasm may also be involved, although it is less frequent.
In addition, there are other problems that can lead to the development of balanoposthitis in dogs, such as the presence of a tin body in the penis, trauma, atopic dermatitis, herpes virus, neoplasms, phimosis, etc.
Symptoms of balanoposthitis in a dog
The most common clinical sign of balanoposthitis is the presence of I put it on the dog's penis. Depending on the cause, pus may be yellow, green and blood may be present. It is important to note that the dog normally produces a yellowish secretion, which works as a lubricant and is common to be observed especially when he is sleeping. This lubricant is normal and should not be confused with pus caused by an infection.
Other symptoms of balanoposthitis are foul odor in the dog's penis, follicles and ulcers. Furthermore, it is common for the dog to excessively lick his penis, due to the discomfort he feels. In some cases, the dog may have the swollen foreskin.
Generally, the veterinarian makes the diagnosis of balanoposthitis through physical examination and observation of the dog's genital organ, followed by a culture of aerobic bacteria and mycoplasma from the foreskin and penile mucosa, to confirm which microorganisms are involved and define the therapeutic approach more suitable.
Treatment of balanoposthitis
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the problem. Usually includes the administration of antibiotics systemic and/or topical.
In cases where there is excessive production of pus in the dog's penis, it may be advisable to have a wash with warm water, dilute iodine or chlorhexidine. Your veterinarian will advise you on the most suitable solution and the number of repetitions of washes you should do, as well as the most suitable syringe. Remember that your puppy cannot lick his penis and foreskin, otherwise the treatment may be delayed. The most effective way to prevent your puppy from licking his genitals is to wear an Elizabethan collar.
In case the balanoposthitis is due to topical dermatitis, the veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids.
Some experts say that castration can reduce the amount and frequency of secretions, although it does not stop them.
More severe cases, where there is necrosis, lacerations or abscesses may require a penectomy, that is, removing the penis surgically.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Balanoposthitis in dog - causes, symptoms and treatment, we recommend that you enter our section on Diseases of the reproductive system.