Metritis in female dogs is inflammation and infection in the womb that develops shortly after whelping (giving birth). A pus-like, foul-smelling vaginal discharge signals infection. Severe or untreated metritis can lead to sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition.

Metritis is most likely to occur in the first 1-2 weeks after a female dog gives birth to puppies. The risk increases after a difficult birth requiring assistance or if an unborn puppy is left behind in the womb. Monitor your dog closely in the first few weeks after she gives birth and seek help from a vet if she seems unwell.

What is metritis in dogs?

Metritis is the medical term for inflammation and infection of the uterus (womb). It usually occurs in the first week postpartum (after giving birth), but may also develop during pregnancy, abortion or even after mating. Infection enters the womb through the open birth canal, leading to inflammation, swelling and infection of the womb lining.

Causes may include:

• Difficult or prolonged birth.

• Using instruments to help deliver the puppies.

• A puppy retained in the womb. Retained placenta (birth sack).

• Abortion or miscarriage.

Pyometra is also a condition of infection in the womb. But it differs from postpartum metritis in that it’s not associated with pregnancy or birth.

Symptoms of metritis in dogs

Symptoms of metritis will depend on the severity and stage of the condition.

• Vaginal discharge: foul-smelling bloody fluid, pus.

• Eating less or not eating at all.

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

• Fever, lethargy, depression.

• Loss of maternal instinct: Not looking after her puppies.

• Decreased or absent milk production.

Which dogs are most at risk of metritis?

Dogs of any breed or size can develop post-whelping womb infections. Risk factors are associated with the cause of infection and your dog’s general health when the puppies are born.

Maternal (mother’s) and environmental risk factors:

• Being older, having poorer body condition..

• Having other health conditions: Hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease, arthritis, and obesity.

• Poor hygiene: Unsanitary birthing area, being unable to self-clean.

Birth complications:

• Prolonged, difficult and assisted births.

• Retained foetus (unborn puppy) or placenta.

• Womb trauma during miscarriage, mating or abortion.

How do vets diagnose metritis in dogs?

Vets diagnose metritis based on your dog’s history, symptoms and a hands-on examination.

If your female dog is unwell and has a vaginal discharge, the vet needs to know:

• If and when she was mated.

• If she had puppies recently.

Your vet may also recommend:

• Blood tests: to assess your dog’s overall health and check for complications, such as sepsis.

• Imaging: Radiographs (X-rays), ultrasound scan: Helps determine if anything inside her uterus is causing the problem, such as a retained foetus.

Vet treatment for metritis in dogs

Treatment for metritis in dogs depends on their symptoms and the severity of the infection.

• Emergency treatment: Hospitalisation for fluids, medication and supportive treatment.

• Antibiotics.

• An injection to make the womb contract and expel its contents; for example pus or a dead, retained foetus.

• An operation to remove the womb: Depending on the circumstances and severity of the condition, your vet may advise this at the time.

How can you help your dog with postpartum metritis at home?

There are no home cures for post-partum metritis. Your dog requires veterinary care and prescription medicine. But home care is an essential part of your dog’s recovery and the well-being of surviving puppies.

• Keep mum and puppies apart: If mum has been very unwell or had an operation, she will need to rest. Your vet will advise when and how to reintroduce them.

• Mammary glands may become full and uncomfortable if puppies aren’t feeding regularly.

• Ease mammary discomfort with warm compresses, gentle massage and expressing milk.

• Always consult your vet before carrying out any of these suggestions.

• Give all prescribed medicines at the correct time and dose and complete the course.

If your dog had surgery, she will need time to recover quietly. Keep her wound clean and dry, and don’t let her run off lead or jump on furniture. Talk to a vet if you have any concerns.

How to prevent metritis in dogs

It’s not always possible to prevent this condition, but good medical support and guidance throughout pregnancy and birth can help prevent more serious problems.

• Have your dog checked by a vet before she gives birth. They can estimate how many puppies she is expecting, so you can monitor her for retained placenta or unborn puppies.

• Schedule a vet check within the first 3 days after the puppies are born. And any follow-up checks advised by your vet.

• Monitor your dog’s behaviour carefully after whelping.

• Check her mammary glands for pain and inflammation and her vulva for abnormal discharge.

Call a vet if you notice anything unusual after your dog gives birth. The sooner any problem is detected, the better the outcome. Do not delay a vet visit if your dog is unwell.

When to worry about metritis in your female dog after giving birth

Take your dog to the nearest vet practice if she is:

• Vomiting after having treatment

• Collapsed and unresponsive.

And after surgery:

• If the surgical wound has reopened.

Joii can help with:

• Recognising the symptoms of post-partum metritis.

• Advice on pregnancy and puppy care.

• Caring for wounds.

• Monitoring recovery.