Urine tract and reproduction system problemes ferrets

Urinary and Uterine Diseases

Bladder Inflammation (Cystitis)

Introduction:

Bladder inflammation can develop for a number of reasons, most commonly urinary tract pathogens (bacteria). Frequent inflammation can be due to mucous membrane damage caused by bladder stones or precipitated crystals in the urine, and may also be associated with bladder infection. Cystitis may develop urine retention (e.g. spinal cord injury), micturition problems, or incontinence. Occasionally, it may also be associated with other illnesses, as an incidental finding. Cystitis secondary to diabetes, when sugar in the urinary bladder or urinary tract may be a good breeding ground for pathogens, or immune deficiency diseases (e.g. Cushing's disease) are perfect examples of this.

Symptoms:

Frequent or painful urination, straining, bloody urine, genital licking, and redness can all be signs of cystitis.

Diagnosis:

In addition to a thorough physical examination, a urinalysis is required for diagnosis. Ultrasounds or abdominal radiography may be required if bladder stones are suspected.

Treatment:

After accurate diagnosis, bacterial bladder inflammation can be treated with targeted antibiotic therapy. In some cases, urinary crystals can be resolved with the help of a special urinary diet. Sometimes, as in the case with persistent bladder stones, surgical intervention is required.

Uterine Inflammation (Metritis) and Infection (Pyometra)

Introduction:

During estrus, when the cervix is opened, the uterus is more exposed to infection. If estrus is prolonged due to abnormal ovarian function the chance of metritis increases.

Symptoms:

Generally, the symptoms appear 3-8 weeks after estrus. The first signs include polydipsia and increased urination. If the cervix remains open, vaginal discharge can be seen. If the cervix is closed, the infection will grow within the uterus, expanding both it and the abdomen, leading to poor appetite and lethargy.

Diagnosis:

If vaginal discharge is present, the illness can often be clearly diagnosed simply by physical examination, however sometimes additional testing, particularly abdominal ultrasound, may be necessary.

Treatment:

In milder cases, hormone therapy, antibiotics, and uterine flushing may be enough to treat metritis, however most often surgical removal of the infected uterus is recommended.