Why is My Large Dog Urinating Brown Liquid and Showing Signs of Illness?

Dear VetBabble: Why is My Large Dog Urinating a Brownish Liquid and Displaying Signs of General Illness?

I recently noticed something concerning about my large, 140lb Pitbull. He’s passing a brown liquid when urinating, that I suspect may contain blood. Also, he’s showing signs of lethargy and instability on his feet, plus not eating as he normally does, but seems to be drinking much more than usual. Should I be alarmed by these symptoms, and does my loyal companion need to see a vet without delay?

Understanding Possible Causes

Blood in your dog’s urine is definitely a cause for concern, and it could point to a health problem needing immediate attention. The color change to a brownish hue could be indicative of various conditions, among them being a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) or even Cystitis. To gain more insight into these potential causes you can read here about UTIs and here about Cystitis in dogs.

Identifying Other Symptoms

A keen observation of other symptoms is crucial in this situation, notably your dog’s increased thirst and decreased appetite. Lethargy and instability may indicate that the condition is already affecting his overall well-being. Check out other signs that might be cause for alarm here. Always remember that with any distressing signs in our furry friends, the best course of action is to consult a professional as soon as possible.

Next Steps and Veterinary Care

Considering your dog’s symptoms, particularly the possible presence of blood in his urine and general disinterest in food along with lethargy, it’s crucial that he gets immediate veterinary attention. These could be signs of a serious underlying issue requiring prompt treatment to ensure your pet’s health and quality of life. It is always better to be safe than sorry when our canine companions are concerned, and immediate addressing of these issues will lead to the best possible prognosis.

You are a responsible and attentive pet owner for noticing these changes discreetly. Evaluating these small yet significant changes in your pet’s behavior and routine could be lifesaving. So, don’t panic, but act swiftly – arrange a visit to the vet for your four-legged companion as soon as you can. Remember, our role is to ensure their happy, healthy, and prowling tails keep wagging!