Definition:  pus-filled uterus

•        Signs of Pyometra - lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, PU/PD, fever, discharge from the vulva, and
abdominal distention.
•        Pyometra is most common in bitches over the age of six years.  It is more common in a bitch who has
not had puppies.
•        There are two types of this uterine infection:
o        Open cervix – This form will show a sticky, reddish pus discharge, often appearing after a season or up
to three months postpartum.  It may be foul smelling.  If the bitch is pregnant, she will abort.  
o        Closed cervix - This type pyometra contains pus sealed within the uterus.  Symptoms include increased
thirst and urination, fever and tender abdomen, which may be bloated.  Vomiting can occur.  
•        Diagnosis - Along with symptoms hematology and radiographs are the most valuable in diagnosing a
pyometra.  A high leukocyte count is observed in both types of pyometra, but is generally higher in closed
pyometra.  BUN may also be increased.  On a lateral radiograph a large fluid filled uterus can sometimes be
seen.
•        Pyometra once led to certain spaying or death.  Medical treatments for mild open pyometra are now
available, but the chances of a pyometra occuring after the next heat is likely.  
•        If the owner still wishes to breed this bitch then attempts can be made to clear the mild infection of a
valuable bitch by flushing the uterus and/or treating with prostaglandin injections.  The bitch should be bred at
the next heat, and then spayed after the delivery of the pups.   
•        For those cases that can only be resolved surgically fluid therapy and antibiotic therapy should be started
immediately, and the surgery should be carried out as soon as the patient is stable.   
•        The surgical procedure can be risky because the uterus is swollen and highly friable (easily ruptured).  
Leaking of the uterine contents into the abdominal cavity could cause complications and the abdominal cavity
will need to be lavaged and suctioned numerous times until all evidence of contamination is gone.  
•        The bitch will most likely need to spend a few days in the veterinary hospital recovering on fluid and drug
therapy.
•        In severe cases irreversible kidney damage may be done, and even with an emergency
ovariohysterectomy the patient may not be able to be saved.
•        Pyometra in bitches over the age of six can be prevented by spaying a bitch once she is retired from the
breeding program.