What are the common early symptoms of metritis in dogs and cats?

Common early signs include changes in vaginal discharge, reduced appetite, decreased activity, and fever. Changes in drinking or urination habits may also occur. If you notice anything unusual, consult your vet and keep a record of your observations.

What tests will be performed at the clinic to evaluate the uterus?

The vet will typically perform a physical examination, blood and urine tests, and use abdominal ultrasound or X-rays to assess the uterus and abdominal cavity. A discharge culture may also be done to guide antibiotic selection.

What should I be aware of when the vet recommends surgery?

Before surgery, blood and imaging results will be reviewed to assess risks. After surgery, activity should be restricted, the wound kept clean, and follow-up appointments attended as scheduled. Discuss detailed pre-surgical preparation with your treating vet.

How soon after treatment should I schedule a follow-up visit?

Follow-up timing varies by the individual patient and treatment approach. Tests are usually scheduled within days to weeks after surgery or the start of treatment to confirm improvement via blood work or imaging. Follow your vet’s instructions for return visits.

How much do the tests and treatment for this condition usually cost?

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

Disease Guide

Metritis in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Metritis is a post-partum uterine infection that presents with fever and abnormal discharge; it requires antibiotic treatment and may need surgical removal of the uterus in severe cases.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AAHA, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, Taiwan Veterinary Internal Medicine Association

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Persistent high fever with extreme lethargy and inability to eat
•Large amounts of foul-smelling discharge or continuous bleeding from the vulva
•Obvious dehydration with poor skin elasticity and dry mouth

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Thick or abnormal discharge from the vulva that requires monitoring
•Noticeably reduced appetite or refusal to eat for two consecutive days
•Fever or increased breathing rate with otherwise stable alertness

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Metritis in dogs and cats often causes multiple physical and behavioural changes. Watch for vaginal discharge, changes in appetite, and reduced alertness so you can seek veterinary evaluation promptly.

Abnormal vaginal discharge with changes in colour or odour
Significant loss of appetite or persistent refusal to eat
Reduced activity, lethargy, or excessive sleepiness
Elevated body temperature or signs of fever
Changes in water intake or abnormal urination habits
Signs of dehydration such as sunken eyes and poor skin elasticity

02How should you assess the situation at home? Key observations and criteria for emergency care

Keeping track of a few key observations at home helps the vet understand how the condition is progressing and make faster, more informed recommendations.

Record appetite and actual food intake changes daily
Note the number of urination episodes and whether urination flows freely
Measure and log body temperature along with the time it was taken
Observe fluctuations in alertness and activity; record behavioural videos
Photograph or film the appearance and colour of vaginal discharge
Bring all records to the clinic for the veterinarian to review

03How will the vet diagnose this condition? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, the vet will combine a physical examination with blood work, imaging, and sample tests to assess for infection and potential complications.

Physical examination

abdominal palpation, assessment of vital signs and mucous membranes

Blood tests

evaluation of infection markers and organ function

Urinalysis

checking for signs of infection or blood in the urine

Abdominal ultrasound

assessing whether the uterus is enlarged or fluid-filled

X-ray

ruling out other abdominal or pelvic abnormalities

Vaginal or discharge bacterial culture

guiding selection of appropriate antimicrobial therapy

Advanced imaging (e.g. CT scan) if needed for a more detailed evaluation

A specialist hospital capable of performing ultrasound and culture tests is recommended

04How is this condition treated and managed? Medications, dietary changes, and home care

Treatment is tailored to test results; whether surgical or conservative, follow-up appointments are essential to confirm improvement and prevent complications.

Antibiotic therapy selected and adjusted based on test results
Surgical options can be discussed if deemed necessary by the vet
Follow-up blood or imaging tests to confirm clinical improvement
Home care focuses on rest and keeping the environment and genital area clean
Monitor water intake and elimination, and adjust diet as directed by your vet
Return to the clinic immediately or contact the hospital if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key information to help your vet identify the cause quickly

Record when symptoms started and how frequently they have changed

List daily food and water intake differences over the past few days

Log the time, colour, and any abnormalities of each urination and bowel movement

Bring a list of all current medications and supplements

Capture photos or videos of vaginal discharge or notable behaviours for reference

Bring past examination reports, vaccination records, and health history for comparison

Use a secure carrier and book a clinic appointment in advance

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.