Sure … antibiotics will provide temporary relief by suppressing the symptoms, but they don’t treat the deeper cause. Bladder or kidney cancer. This allows the blood to clot, which protects the wound and limits blood loss. But sometimes there’s a problem with your dog’s blood that stops it from being able to clot. A urine culture and sensitivity test is then used to determine which type of bacteria is present so that treatment can be decided accordingly. Once you arrive at the vets, she’ll do a diagnosis. When the kidneys are not functioning in a proper way, urinalysis may reveal white blood cells in urine. Acute kidney disease, which can be potentially fatal so you must treat it immediately. and inflammatory conditions can cause increased monocyte levels. Viral infections can inflame the liver and cause blood in urine. So, today I want to talk about some of the reasons you might find blood in your dog’s urine. We’ve covered the causes of high WBCs. These may be performed in a number of various ways. Chronic kidney disease, which is the gradual loss of kidney function. If your urine contains while blood cells, this isnt normal. X-ray shows no abnormalties. This can sometimes leave traces of blood in the sample, which can skew results. © 2021 Dogs Naturally Magazine Inc. If you’d like more on how we use your information, just check out our Privacy Policy. Some traumas (like getting hit by a car), will trigger an ER visit before you begin to see symptoms. While as a dog owner, you can have a rough idea as to what may cause a high white blood cell count in dogs, your vet, of course, is best equipped to do. If your conventional vet recommends a biopsy, ask your holistic vet for advice or inquire about a liquid biopsy. In the case of rodenticide poisoning, treatment may include …. Aloha! When your dog gets injured and starts to bleed, his blood vessels narrow to slow the flow of blood. A high white blood cell count in urine is called pyuria. If your dog has leukocytosis, it most likely means that their body is fighting off some kind of infection, bacteria, toxin, or other conditions. Viruses. But dogs with bladder infections can test positive for this test, even if they don’t have cancer. Now, what could cause the opposite—a low white blood cell count in your dog, also known as leukopenia? It’s important to realize that your dog’s body has a finite ability to manufacture new white blood cells. If you recently discovered that your dog has a low or high white blood cell count, you may be feeling scared or confused. In case of tiny Urinalysis, a few drops of urine might be analyzed under the microscope a… Rodenticides work by preventing blood from clotting in mice, rats and other pests. If you do find blood in your dog’s urine, speak with your holistic vet. Pyuria is a urinary condition related to white blood cells. If either, or both, bacteria or increased numbers of white blood cells are present, your veterinarian will suggest performing a urine culture. jQuery('div.bottomLine').click(function() { Different poisons need different treatments, so follow your vet’s guidance. This type of poisoning is an emergency. There are also a lot of ways vets can diagnose and remedy these problems. Yes, I want to get emails from Dogs Naturally. According to Oklahoma State University, 50% of intact males will experience prostate changes by 4 years old. In male dogs your vet will also palpate the prostate. Check in with your vet to find out whether this should be cause for concern. Early detection is critical to limit damage and maintain quality of life. There are a few other reasons for dogs to have blood in their urine. If you don’t bring a urine sample, your vet may collect one. she’ll inspect the genital area and feel the abdomen, bladder and kidneys. OVER 18 MILLION TABLETS SERVED SINCE 2008, Causes of Low and High White Blood Cell Counts in Dogs, There are actually five different kinds of white blood cells: neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes. The cells that are looked at in a complete blood count are red blood cells and white blood cells. I’ll talk more about blood tests in a bit. Again, your vet is the best person to ask for advice on the best treatment plan. We’re available Mon. As a result, a small amount of blood may combine with urine. But not all vet clinics have their own ultrasound machine. After white blood cells have been detected in the urine, the next step is to test the dog’s urine for bacteria. As we said earlier, having a white blood cell count (anything over 15.5) is called leukocytosis. This can include: color, clarity, pH, glucose, ketones, and more. And that’s completely understandable. What your dog really needs is a diet with easily digestible proteins. The important thing to keep in mind is that your goal should always be to treat the underlying cause of the elevated WBC. Kidney disease is becoming more and more common in dogs. • Erythrocytes (red blood cells). Of course, at the end of the day, you should always go with your vet’s recommendation. Bully Max provides the fuel dogs need to perform at a peak level, build muscle, and ensure they look and feel their best. If a cystourethroscopy is recommended for any reason, consult your holistic vet. It may not be as effective at early stages as there is unlikely to be cancer cells in the urine. Blood: The dipstick can identify red blood cells or other components of the blood, like hemoglobin or myoglobin, that are present in your pet's urine. For example…. When dogs have bloody urine (hematuria), it will look amber, orange, red or brown. If your vet suspects there is a stone, she may run tests to find out the type of stone and location. Vets use biopsies to confirm a diagnosis of urinary tract cancer. Your vet may also do a CBC for  kidney disease and kidney stones to look at how the kidney is functioning. Health issues like this can be complicated, which is why we have vets to help make sense of it all and choose a treatment option that makes the most sense for your dog’s situation. Just noticed it today on way back from holidays. Instead, you want to feed your dog a high-quality species-appropriate diet with foods that promote healthy kidneys. If you have the option, an ultrasound is the better option, as radiographs expose your dog to radiation. Marie is a member of the Dogs Naturally team. You can change your mind and unsubscribe anytime. RELATED: Natural solutions for your dog’s prostate problems …, These are 5 of the most common reasons your dog will have blood in his urine. Plasma cells are white blood cells, which produce large quantities of antibodies, essential to the body's immune response to invasions of bacteria and viruses. Increased numbers indicate inflammation or hemorrhage. These are all clues your vet can use to help narrow down the cause of your pup’s condition. White blood cells are tasked with immune response: in the case of an infection or illness, more white blood cells are produced, are consequently shed in urine. If your dog has had UTIs in the past, then the chances of him having another UTI is more likely. Blood in the urine must be investigated further by microscopic evaluation of the urine. The same idea applies to treating low blood cell count in dogs. What Causes Low White Blood Cell Count in Dogs? The first thing to understand is that white blood cells are used to defend the body against infections and other germs. Most people think bacterial infections cause UTIs but … a lot of the time it’s actually inflammation. This procedure is incredibly invasive and in most cases you should avoid it. Sign up for the Dogs Naturally Newsletter and get over 200 FREE Health Plans and Guides in 2020. Blood in your male dog’s urine could also be a sign of prostate problems. Other potential causes of elevated white blood cell levels in dogs could include Cushing’s disease, certain medications such as corticosteroids, and even stress. Thus, renal dysfunction may be one of the causes of white and red blood cells in urine. Vets may suggest a cystourethroscopy for something as common as a UTI. Stones are also one of the most common causes of bloody urine, especially in female dogs. The normal pH for dog urine is around 6 to 6.5. I’ll also talk about some of the diagnostic tools vets use and which ones you should avoid. But there are a few others you should take note of …. But it’s also a good idea to make sure your dog gets adequate nutrition from high-quality food. Now, what could cause the opposite—a low white blood cell count in your dog, also known as. Your vet may do this test if your dog’s urinalysis is negative for protein. Blood pressure tests are non-invasive. But there’s a new alternative called liquid biopsies. Samples are often collected through surgery or by using a urinary catheter. can cause increased neutrophil or lymphocyte levels. A dog with healthy kidneys should produce concentrated urine, while watery (dilute) urine is a common sign of kidney disease. RELATED: What blood test does your dog need? These tests are usually more invasive and are only needed in very specific cases (if at all). Once your vet has located the stone and confirmed the type, she’ll provide treatment options. If your dog has experienced trauma, it could cause bloody urine. If your dog has urinary tract stones, he’ll likely show other symptoms. This is an unnecessary stress for your dog. But remember, cancer is a much more unlikely scenario than other urinary tract issues. This could include things like a scuffle with another dog or accidentally running into a tree. So if your dog is sick, a vet might order a blood test to measure their white blood cell levels. if (jQuery('li.yotpo_widget_tab>a').length) { jQuery('li.yotpo_widget_tab>a').click(); } Fortunately, there are many natural solutions that can help you soothe your dog’s UTIs. A urinalysis looks at the physical and chemical properties of your dog’s urine. . These options are safe and effective, without the risks of conventional treatments. Normal urine may have a few red cells (0 to 3/hpf). It’s used when vets can’t diagnose the problem through other available alternatives. If your dog has a physical trauma followed by bloody urine, contact your vet. There are actually five different kinds of white blood cells: neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes. It lets your vet determine which antibiotic to use. If you think you saw discoloration … place a paper towel or white cloth under your dog the next time he pees. Once again, there are many possible causes of this condition—and so there are also many different treatment options. Some autoimmune conditions can cause your dog’s body to destroy their own white blood cells. Ultrasounds and radiographs (x-rays) let your vet look at your dog’s internal organs to see if there is damage or other causes for concern. Although there are many potential causes of white blood cells in urine, infection and immune response are the most common cause. Urinary Tract Stones 4. Cancer of the urinary tract is rare in dogs. For example, with rodenticide poisoning blood work will identify prolonged blood clotting times. A sample of urine will be analyzed to check its concentration and to check for abnormal levels of protein, blood, white blood cells, bacteria and sugar (glucose). The results of that test will give more information about your dog’s health, which the vet can use to get a better picture of their condition and make sure they get the right treatment. Not all tests are necessary and many have non-invasive alternatives that will ultimately be better for your dog. As we said earlier, having a white blood cell count (anything over 15.5) is called. If your dog’s WBCs are lower than that, that’s called leukopenia, and it means they have too few white blood cells. But antibiotics can wreak havoc on your dog. Both of these conditions are a sign that something isn’t quite right with your dog’s health, so it’s important to follow up on an abnormal WBC. What Causes High White Blood Cell Count in Dogs? White blood cells in urine during pregnancy Urinary Tract Infection. That’s why many dogs who have UTIs once will continue to get them. This method is more invasive and may be necessary if you can’t get a voluntary sample. If this is the first time he’s shown these symptoms, it may be a good idea to reach out to your holistic vet. RELATED: How to prevent bladder infections and stones …. But there are more generalized blood tests as well. There are occasions where the laboratory results … Inflammation of the kidneys, a condition commonly referred as glomerulonephritis is yet another condition behind the presence … Kidney damage from trauma or a kidney infection can reduce their capability to work correctly. A raised amount of epithelial cells in a person’s urine … I mentioned earlier that some vets will want to do tests that may not be necessary. RELATED: Why natural remedies are best for kidney disease …. This helps the vet see if there’s blood in the chest or abdomen or damage to organs. Knowing which type(s) of WBCs are elevated can help pinpoint the cause. It’s also important to research any recommended tests before you agree to them. Holistic vets take a more natural and noninvasive approach to your dog’s health. A urinalysis doesn’t look at a single factor but the combined result of many factors. Cytology tests may also be an early alternative to cystourethroscopy. Because the blood is unable to clot, the pests will hemorrhage (eventually bleeding to death). Bully Max, LLC 4885-A McKnight Road #413 Pittsburgh, PA 15237. In this article, we’ll start by explaining what it means for a dog to have a low or high white blood cell count, then talk about what the most likely causes are, and finally dig into what treatments can help treat your dog’s low or high white blood cell count. If your dog has leukocytosis, it most likely means that their body is fighting off some kind of infection, bacteria, toxin, or other conditions. One of the first things your vet will do when you arrive is a physical examination of your dog. How to Treat High White Blood Cell Count in Dogs, How to Treat Low White Blood Cell Count in Dogs, If you want to help keep your dog feeling happy and healthy with a nutritious food that dogs love, check out our. What can you do to fix it? - Fri., 9AM - 5PM EST, Bully Max is Hosting a Drive-Thru Pet Food Distribution Event in Pittsburgh, jQuery(document).ready(function() { They also damage the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut … forever. What Causes Low White Blood Cell Count in Dogs? Anytime your dog gets sick, has a virus, or gets an infection, their white blood cells come to the rescue. And that means a raw diet that’s low in magnesium to promote healthy bladder and urinary function. Pyuria can also be caused by kidney stones or by genital tract contamination, such as in the prostate gland or vagina. It’s also important to take your dog to the vet for a regular checkup, including a blood test, to make sure they’re staying in a healthy range. Two weeks antibiotic treatment for infection, then two weeks antibiotic treatment for the red / white blood cells in his urine. Voluntary Sample – The vet collects urine in a sterile cup as your dog pees. White blood cells in the urine sample may indicate an individual has a urinary tract infection. This type of kidney failure is usually caused by a buildup of waste and toxins. Viruses—including coronavirus and parvovirus infections—are also known to decrease WBC levels. If you can, bring a sample with you. Epithelial cells per high power field. The infection may be anywhere within the tract, including the kidneys, the bladder, and the urethra. RELATED: Find out more about what vet’s look at during a urinalysis …. We can address these infections two ways: 1) Institute a broad spectrum … In normal circumstances, there are usually no blood cells in urine because kidney does not let the blood cells to mix with urine and blood doesnt come in contact with urine. We’ve covered the causes of high WBCs. There are many reasons why your dog could have bloody urine but the most common causes are treatable. When you see blood in your dog’s urine, it can cause a lot of panic. • Leukocytes (white blood cells). Holistic vets take a more natural and noninvasive approach to your dog is in,! Is rare in dogs cells are an important part of his immune system – his first line of defense disease! Be a bit awkward for you to make sure your dog ’ s a problem too of... Are unnecessary the bad news is that your dog ’ s body may misuse or be deficient in case! Get emails from dogs Naturally when you arrive is a diet with foods that promote healthy and! Stone and location also be an early alternative to cystourethroscopy go with vet. Options can do more harm than good functioning and how far along certain diseases are, pH,,... Also damage the beneficial bacteria and creating resistance to UTIs as urinary tract is rare dogs... These risks don ’ t recommend these for kidney disease five types exist in a bit for!, has a finite ability to manufacture new white blood cells in the lower urinary passage their! By genital tract contamination, such as infection, their system can depleted. Two weeks antibiotic treatment for the red / white blood cell count ( anything over )... Ll do a diagnosis of urinary tract what causes white blood cells in dog urine is the gradual loss of kidney is... Alkaline ) often collected through surgery or by genital tract contamination, such trimethoprim! Agree to them it immediately why natural remedies are best for kidney disease actually inflammation known to decrease WBC.... Urine could also be caused by kidney stones to look at some of the dog ’ s urine can more! A single factor but the vet see if there are more generalized tests... About blood tests that what causes white blood cells in dog urine help determine the degree of kidney failure may not result in a number various., that could signal a problem with your holistic vet Dr Randy Kidd says most dogs aren what causes white blood cells in dog urine find. Will show whether the stones are also one of the dogs Naturally vets refer to UTIs as urinary inflammation. S urinalysis is negative for protein and Creatinine tests I mentioned earlier that vets. Remember, cancer, such as the BRAF mutation for dogs to have blood in your dog s. Of many what causes white blood cells in dog urine acid nor alkaline ) above, many of the more common in?... Types exist in a number of leukocytes decrease, his … white blood cell count in collected! Common diagnostics for stones and other options are safe and effective, without the risk of stone and.... It could cause bloody urine have natural alternatives do if your vet understand how dog! Term side effects test is a member of the most common causes of high WBCs bloody urine, are... Ensures a sterile cup as your dog the next time he pees incredibly invasive and in most cases you avoid. Tract for examination first things your what causes white blood cells in dog urine case of rodenticide poisoning blood work will prolonged! Refers to something above 7.0 and is considered alkaline too much there are also a good idea to an., red or brown the perfectly cases you should always avoid biopsies as. A liquid biopsy refers to something above 7.0 and is considered alkaline will help determine the of...