Is benign prostatic hyperplasia common in dogs and cats?

It is more common in intact male dogs and the incidence increases with age; it is relatively rare in cats. Your vet should examine your pet to assess the underlying cause and individual risk.

How does a vet diagnose prostatic hyperplasia?

Diagnosis typically combines a patient history, physical palpation, urinalysis, biochemistry panel, and imaging (ultrasound or X-ray) to evaluate prostate size and identify any complications.

Is surgery always necessary?

Not necessarily. Treatment depends on test results — sometimes medication or infection control is the main approach; in complex or obstructive cases, surgery or other interventions may be considered.

What should I watch for at follow-up visits?

Your vet will arrange regular imaging and urine culture to monitor symptoms and infection. Keep a record of any urination changes to help your vet assess treatment effectiveness at each visit.

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

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Dogs & Cats: Urinary Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is common in intact older male dogs — neutering is the most effective treatment

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, Veterinary Internal Medicine Society

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Repeatedly attempting to urinate with no urine output and visible distress
•Heavy fresh blood in urine that continues without stopping
•Lethargy, inability to eat, or obvious weakness

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

•Frequent straining to urinate with only small amounts and signs of discomfort
•Blood-tinged or dark red urine appearing intermittently
•Reduced activity level, changes in appetite or alertness

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia commonly causes urinary discomfort and behavioural changes, with owners noticing a range of abnormalities in urination and activity levels.

Dull pain or obvious discomfort in the abdominal or pelvic region
Signs of pain or repeated straining during urination
Blood in the urine or visible hematuria
Difficulty urinating or noticeable changes in urine volume
Reduced activity, decreased appetite, or changes in demeanour

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Complete inability to urinate despite repeated straining with no output
⚠️ Large amounts of fresh blood in urine with ongoing bleeding
⚠️ Lethargy, inability to eat, or obvious weakness

02How can you monitor this at home? Key observations and when to go to an emergency clinic

Keeping a home record of symptoms and urination patterns helps your vet assess the condition and prioritise tests.

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have changed over time
Record the frequency of urination and whether blood or an unusual odour is present
Weigh your pet regularly to track overall health status
Monitor whether water intake and appetite have increased or decreased
If possible, take a short video of urination or activity for the vet's reference
If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a clinic appointment promptly

03How does the vet diagnose this condition? Common tests

Your vet will use blood, urine, and imaging tests to rule out infection, identify the source of bleeding, and evaluate prostate size and structure.

Complete blood count (CBC)

assess for infection or anaemia

Biochemistry panel

evaluate liver, kidney, and other organ function

Urinalysis (with sediment)

detect blood or signs of infection

Urine culture

confirm whether bacterial infection is present and guide treatment

X-ray

assess pelvic structure and prostate outline

Ultrasound or CT scan

further evaluate prostate structure and enlargement

04What treatment and care is needed after diagnosis? Medications, diet adjustments, and care guide

Treatment may include medical or surgical options depending on test results, with regular follow-up imaging and urine tests required.

Determine whether conservative management or surgical intervention is appropriate based on test results
Drug therapy and infection control require regular check-ups as directed by your vet
Key home care includes adequate rest and water intake management
Schedule follow-up imaging or urine culture as needed to monitor the condition
Regular revisits are required after surgery or during treatment to assess recovery
For complex cases, referral to a urology or surgical specialist is recommended

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

Compile a timeline of when symptoms started and how they have changed

Record urination frequency, volume, and whether blood or abnormalities are present

Note recent changes in water intake and appetite

Bring a list of any current medications or supplements

If possible, bring a fresh urine sample for same-day testing

Prepare a short video of urination or activity and book the 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.