What Is Metritis?
Metritis is a bacterial infection of the uterus that usually starts within the first week after a dog or cat gives birth. During and after delivery, the cervix is open and the uterus is vulnerable, so bacteria can travel up from the vagina and infect it. It can make the mother seriously ill and affect her ability to care for her litter.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- A long or difficult birth; see dystocia
- A retained puppy, kitten or placenta
- Assisted delivery or unclean whelping conditions
- Miscarriage or abortion
Signs to Watch For
- Foul-smelling, dark, pus-like or bloody discharge (normal discharge after birth is reddish-brown and not smelly)
- Fever, lethargy and loss of appetite
- Vomiting or increased thirst
- Neglecting the litter or producing less milk
- Puppies or kittens that cry, fail to gain weight or seem hungry
Metritis vs pyometra
Metritis follows birth. Pyometra is a uterine infection that develops weeks after a heat cycle in an unspayed female who did not give birth. Both are serious, and both need a vet.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Vets diagnose metritis with a physical exam, an ultrasound to check for retained fetuses or placentas, and blood tests. Treatment usually includes:
- Antibiotics, chosen to be as safe as possible for nursing young
- Fluids and supportive care for a sick mother
- Medication to help the uterus contract and empty
- Spaying in severe cases or once the litter is weaned
Puppies or kittens may need bottle-feeding while the mother recovers. Related conditions include pyometra, mastitis and eclampsia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after birth does metritis appear?
Most cases show up within 1 to 7 days after delivery.
Is some discharge after birth normal?
Yes. A reddish-brown, odorless discharge can last a few weeks. Discharge that smells bad, looks like pus, or comes with fever is not normal.
Can metritis be prevented?
A clean whelping area, prompt help with difficult births and a post-birth vet check to confirm nothing was retained all lower the risk.
If a new mother has smelly discharge or fever, call a vet the same day. Find a veterinary clinic near you for an exam.