Successful Medical Treatment of Haemorrhagic Cystitis in a Dog

Aims: To evaluate the aetiology and medical treatment of haemorrhagic cystitis in a nine-month-old Caucasian dog.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike for a period of 3 weeks.
Methodology: In this study, clinical examination revealed blood in urine (haematuria), painful urination (dysuria), hyperaemic mucus membrane, ocular discharges, mild tick infestation and evidence of pain on the bladder on palpation. Blood sample was collected to determine the haematological changes and to check for haemoparasites. Urine was also collected with the aid of a catheter for urinalysis and culture.
Results: No haemoparasite was seen in the thin smear stained with giemsa. The result of the haematology were as follows; packed cell volume (PCV) 22%, Haemoglobin concentration (HB) 8.0 g/dl, total leucocyte count 9500 (103/µL) and differential leucocyte counts were; neutrophils 52%, lymphocyte 36%, eosinophil 7%, monocytes 3% and basophils 2%. The urinalysis revealed the presence of oxalate crystals, nitrate, proteinuria, urine PH (6.0), bloody and turbid urine. The culture showed pure growth of Streptococcus species sensitive to gentamicin. Based on the case history, clinical examination and laboratory diagnosis, the condition was diagnosed to be canine haemorrhagic cystitis. Intravenous infusion of 5% dextrose saline was first administered followed by furosemide at a dose of 3 mg/kg BW, dexamethasone 0.2 mg/kg BW, gentamicin 5 mg/kg BW and 3 ml of vitamin B-complex. The animal was monitored and supportive therapy continued for 5 days before discharging.
Conclusion: Uncomplicated haemorrhagic cystitis can be successfully treated medically.