How is Candida infection confirmed?

Your vet will combine a physical examination with urine microscopy, cytology, culture, and/or PCR testing to identify the pathogen. Imaging may be arranged when needed.

How long does treatment for Candida infection take?

Treatment duration depends on the severity and pathogen involved, and typically ranges from several weeks to several months. Culture or testing must confirm pathogen clearance — follow your vet's instructions throughout.

What can I do at home to help with the diagnosis?

Take and record your pet's temperature daily, document urination patterns, and bring a fresh urine sample along with a symptom log. This helps your vet assess the situation and determine which tests are needed more quickly.

Can Candida infection spread to humans?

Some fungal infections can potentially be transmitted between animals and people during close contact. If your pet has an active infection or open lesions, consult your vet and practise good personal hygiene.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Candidiasis in Dogs & Cats: Fever, Urinary Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment [2025]

Candidiasis is a fungal infection commonly seen in pets with weakened immune systems or those on prolonged antibiotic therapy.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent high fever with severe lethargy and inability to eat
•Difficulty urinating or complete absence of urine output for several hours
•Sudden fainting or inability to stand without assistance

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Recurring fever lasting more than 24 hours without resolution
•Blood in urine or abnormal urine color lasting more than one day
•Decreased appetite with noticeably reduced activity level

01What Symptoms Indicate Something Is Wrong?

Candida infection in dogs and cats commonly presents as fever, urinary tract signs, or systemic symptoms. Symptoms may be persistent or recurrent — a veterinary consultation is recommended for further evaluation.

Persistent or recurrent fever (elevated body temperature)
Blood in the urine or visibly bloody urine
Increased urination frequency, straining to urinate, or constant dribbling
Lethargy and noticeably reduced activity levels
Decreased appetite or short-term weight changes

02How to Assess Symptoms at Home: Observation Tips and When to Seek Emergency Care

Observing and recording key information at home can speed up your vet's assessment and diagnosis. Systematically tracking temperature, urine output, and behavioural changes is highly recommended.

Take your pet's temperature at the same time each day and note the reading and time
Monitor alertness, responsiveness, and changes in activity level
Track food intake, water consumption, and any vomiting or diarrhoea
Record urination frequency, urine volume, colour, and any odour changes
Weigh your pet regularly and note any changes
If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange a vet visit as soon as possible

03How Will the Vet Make a Diagnosis? Common Diagnostic Tests

Your vet will perform a physical examination and combine it with laboratory and imaging tests to confirm the source of infection and develop a treatment plan.

Full physical examination to identify potential sites of infection

Urinalysis including urine sediment examination and microscopy

Cytology to assess fungal cell morphology

Bacterial and fungal culture to confirm the pathogen and perform sensitivity testing

PCR (nucleic acid testing) for improved pathogen detection rates

Imaging (e.g. CT) when needed to evaluate deep or complicated infections

04Treatment and Care After Diagnosis: Medication, Diet, and Home Care Guide

Treatment focuses on appropriate antifungal medication and supportive care, with regular follow-up visits and tests to track treatment response and confirm pathogen clearance.

Select appropriate antifungal medication based on test results
Schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor clinical signs and test results
Provide supportive care and necessary nutritional support
Keep the home environment dry and clean to reduce the risk of reinfection
Use urine culture to confirm clearance of the pathogen
For complex or recurrent cases, referral to a specialist hospital is recommended

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet Reach a Diagnosis Quickly

Note when symptoms started, how they have changed, and how long they have lasted

Bring a recent temperature log and symptom record for the vet's reference

Record recent diet, any vomiting episodes, and current medications

Describe urination frequency, volume, colour, and any unusual odour in detail

List all current medications, supplements, and known allergies

If possible, bring a fresh urine sample for on-site testing

Book your appointment in advance and mention that culture or PCR testing may be needed

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.