Section: Treatment In-depth
Treatment of the symptoms might be needed while doing a diagnostic work-up, especially if the problem is severe. The following nonspecific (symptomatic) treatments may be applicable to some, but not all pets with prostatic enlargement. These treatments may reduce severity of symptoms or provide relief for your pet. However, nonspecific therapy is not a substitute for treatment of the underlying disease responsible for your pet's condition.
Intravenous fluids. If your pet is very ill, febrile, or dehydrated, intravenous fluid support may be indicated. Fluid therapy maintains tissue perfusion, blood pressure and circulatory status. The animals that usually require fluid support are those with acute diseases, such as acute prostatitis.
Intravenous antibiotics. Antibiotics may be necessary once cultures are taken if infection is suspected in the ill animal. In critical or very ill animals with a history and exam suspicious of infection, it is prudent to begin antibiotic therapy prior to receiving final diagnostic results.
Urinary bladder catheterization. In cases where the prostate causes compression of the urethra and a urinary obstruction, a catheter should be placed from the urethral orifice at the tip of the penis through the urethra and into the bladder. The goal is to bypass the urethral blockage and allow for the normal flow of urine.
Analgesic medications. Prostatic disease, especially acute prostatitis, can be very painful. Providing pain relief while a diagnosis is pending will allow the dog to be more comfortable and to be able to rest. Narcotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are most commonly used.
Enema. If the prostatomegaly is severe enough to cause compression of the colon, constipation may result. Giving an enema may relieve the discomfort while diagnostic tests are pending.
