Halle is a 7 and a half year old Shar Pei X who was presented to our clinic for lethargy and inappetance for approximately four days. Her owner, Daniel, was getting increasingly worried about Halle, having noticed her belly was getting bigger by the day and she was drinking a lot more.

Halle was very quiet and subdued on presentation. The fact that she was not desexed immediately raised the suspicion for pyometra. Pyometra is an infection of the uterus typically affecting entire (undesexed) female dogs from middle to old age. Pyometra can be either 'open' (meaning cervix is open) or 'closed' (meaning cervix is closed).

Prognosis for open pyometra is generally better because the purulent material in the uterus is able to drain, thus avoiding excessive distension of the uterus and impending rupture, which could cause serious peritonitis. You ought to be extra cautious if you own an entire female showing signs of lethargy, excessive drinking, distended abdomen with or without discharge from the vulva. Pyometra can be easily prevented by desexing your pet regardless of age. If you are not planing on breeding, then desexing at 6 months of age is recommended.

Halle was radiographed which confirmed a closed pyometra. Lucky for Halle she presented to our clinic in time and her uterus was removed without complication. The uterus weighed 3kg on the scale after removal.

Halle recovered remarkably well within the first two days, going back to her usual bouncy self. Owner Daniel was thrilled that she recovered well and we are certain Halle is feeling much better now without the extra burden.

Other related articles:

• Pyometra in dogs
• Desexing - sterilisation and your pet