How to Properly Care for Your Dog After Catheterization8

Dog catheterization is a procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube into your dog's urethra and bladder to drain urine. It is typically performed when a dog is unable to urinate on its own, such as when they are blocked by a urinary stone or have a urinary tract infection. While catheterization is a relatively simple procedure, it is important to properly care for your dog afterward to prevent complications.

Immediate Post-Catheterization Care

Immediately after catheterization, your dog may experience some discomfort or pain. You can help to minimize this by:* Keeping your dog calm and quiet.
* Applying a cold compress to the area around the catheter.
* Giving your dog a pain reliever, if prescribed by your veterinarian.

You should also monitor your dog's urination for the next few days. If your dog is not urinating normally or is straining to urinate, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Long-Term Post-Catheterization Care

In the long term, you can help to prevent complications from catheterization by:* Keeping the catheter insertion site clean and dry.
* Changing the catheter dressing as directed by your veterinarian.
* Giving your dog plenty of fluids to help flush out the urinary tract.
* Feeding your dog a diet that is low in magnesium and phosphorus.

You should also avoid letting your dog lick or chew at the catheter insertion site. This can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and lead to infection.

Potential Complications of Catheterization

While catheterization is a generally safe procedure, there are some potential complications that can occur, including:* Urinary tract infection.
* Urethral stricture (narrowing of the urethra).
* Bladder rupture.
* Death.

These complications are rare, but they can be serious. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your dog after catheterization, you should contact your veterinarian immediately:* Fever.
* Chills.
* Lethargy.
* Loss of appetite.
* Abdominal pain.
* Difficulty urinating.
* Blood in the urine.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your dog has a safe and successful recovery from catheterization.

2025-01-16

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