Pyometra is a life-threatening uterine infection in entire female dogs requiring emergency surgical treatment, with prevention through neutering being the most effective welfare strategy.
Pyometra causes acute and progressive welfare harm. The uterus fills with pus, causing systemic toxemia and organ failure if untreated. Affected dogs feel profoundly unwell - lethargic, nauseous, and in pain from abdominal distension. Closed pyometra carries greater risk as infection cannot escape, leading to rapid deterioration and risk of uterine rupture causing peritonitis. The disease can progress from initial signs to critical illness within days. Emergency surgery provides rapid welfare relief, but the best welfare approach is prevention through neutering. Owners of entire females should know the signs of pyometra and seek emergency care without delay.