SIGNS OF PROSTATITIS (INFECTION OF THE PROSTATE)
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Prostatitis is a painful, sometimes life-threatening infection of the prostate—most common in intact male dogs.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
None—prostatitis is always medical.
MEDICAL
• Bacterial infection
• Secondary to BPH
• Prostate cyst infection
• Chronic urinary infection
EMERGENCY
• Prostatic abscess
• Sepsis
RED FLAGS
• Fever
• Bloody urine
• Straining
• Lethargy
• Rectal pain
• If unsure, treat as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE
None—requires veterinary treatment.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Prostate ultrasound
• Culture
• CBC
• Pain assessment
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Acute prostatitis
• Chronic prostatitis
• Prostatic abscess
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• Immediately: fever + straining
• 24 hrs: suspected infection
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Untreated prostatitis can lead to abscess rupture, sepsis, and death.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended after stabilization for long-term hormonal and immune support.