Canine pyometra is one of the most common dog uterus diseases, and it usually occurs in those animals that are not neutered in the first years of life. But when we talk about the canine uterus, there are many curiosities behind the functioning of this structure. Located in the abdominal cavity, the uterus of the bitch is lined with three types of membranes: perimetrium (outer part), myometrium and the uterus.The structure also has some important ligaments that hold it in place.

Its main function, in this case, is to house the fertilized embryo and provide a safe place for the development of fetuses. These are just a few details of the anatomy of the uterus and there are many other facts about the structure that will help you better understand your dog's body. The Paws of the House has put together 7 things about the canine uterus anatomy, functions and health problems.

1) Where is the bitch's uterus and what is its anatomy like?

The uterus of bitches is located inside the abdominal region. The normal size of the uterus of a bitch weighing up to 10 kgs is 0.8 centimetres. The organ is cylindrical in shape, with two horns of uniform, long and narrow diameters. The peritoneum is a serous, smooth and transparent membrane that lines the uterus. The so-called peritoneal ligaments are the compositions that areresponsible for keeping the bitch's uterus in place.

2) What is the function of the bitch's uterus?

The female dog's uterus plays an important role in canine reproduction. It is responsible for transporting and capacitating the male dog's sperm until they reach the oviduct for fertilization to occur. The uterus favors the initial development of the embryo and provides placentation for the development of puppies if the female dog becomes pregnant.

3) What is pyometra in bitches?

When we search for things related to infection, uterus, dog and health problems, we soon see results about canine pyometra. But do you know what it is? Pyometra is characterized as a uterine infection that occurs during the period of heat of the bitches. In this phase, the uterus of the puppies is more exposed, which makes it more susceptible to bacteria. The heat is a period of many bacteria.hormonal changes, such as increased progesterone, which make the environment perfect for bacteria to proliferate, triggering infections. When left untreated, canine pyometra can cause more serious complications for the puppy.

4) Infection in the uterus of a bitch: symptoms of pyometra

The identification of pyometra in female dogs is very important, so every dog owner should be aware of the symptoms of the disease. But do you know what they are? They can be diverse and non-specific, but the most common can vary between:

• lack of appetite
• weakness
• fever
• pain
• increased abdominal volume
• vaginal discharge
• bleeding

Canine pyometra is known to be a silent disease, its symptoms usually appear around two months after the dog's heat. Therefore, the ideal is that the tutor always keeps the animal health checkups at the trusted veterinarian always up to date.

5) Open and closed canine pyometra: disease can present in two different forms

The development of this disease in the dog's uterus can occur in two different forms. In the so-called "open form", it is possible to observe vaginal discharge with pus, because the cervix remains open. The tutor will be able to identify the problem more easily, as it is common for the bitch to start licking the genital region more and also for the place where the pet feels to become dirty.

Closed pyometra occurs when the infection produces the development of nodules that generate accumulation of pus, which ends up obstructing the cervix of the dog. This condition is more serious and can be more difficult to identify. The ideal is for the tutor to always be aware of the other clinical manifestations. When diagnosed, canine pyometra needs to be treated immediately to prevent further complications.Generally, treatment is based on ovariohysterectomy surgery, which removes the uterus and ovaries of the pet. In addition, the use of antibiotics is aligned with the treatment of the disease.

6) Castration of the bitch prevents diseases affecting the structure

Because it is a disease considered silent, prevention is the best way to combat pyometra in bitches. The main way to prevent this disease is to castrate the bitch. In this way, the bitch will no longer be influenced by the reproductive cycle and in addition to canine pyometra, other diseases linked to sex hormones are avoided.

Sterilization of female dogs consists of removing the ovaries and uterus. For this, an incision will be made at the height of the pet's navel. The stitches will need postoperative care, such as the use of surgical clothing for dogs. Although it seems like an invasive surgery, it is indicated that dog castration be done as soon as possible to prevent diseases, both in females and males.

7) The use of contraceptives for bitches is not indicated to prevent estrus.

The use of the contraceptive for dogs is a big mistake that can compromise the life of the pet. Because it is a cheaper method than castration, it ends up being widely used, but inhibiting the heat of bitches with this type of product can leave sequelae due to the high concentration of hormones. The contraceptive for dogs can even favor the appearance of tumors and infections such as pyometracanine.