Comparative efficacy of various therapeutic protocols in the treatment of pyometra in bitches

Abstract

This study was undertaken on canine pyometra and consisted of 28 bitches of different breeds with known breeding history and open type of pyometra. The diagnosis of pyometra was made by correlating the history and clinical signs with the findings of abdominal palpation, radiography and ultrasonography. The physiological, haematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated before and at the end of therapy. The clinical cases were divided randomly into four different groups with each group consisting of seven bitches. One untreated control group in which bitches were given only supportive therapies was included. The bitches in the other three groups were treated using natural PGF₂α or synthetic PGF₂α or a combination of a dopamine agonist prolactin-inhibiting drug, i.e., cabergoline and lower dose of synthetic PGF₂α (Cloprostenol) along with supportive therapies. Treatment of canine pyometra by the use of different drugs was found to be successful. Though a lower dose of cloprostenol was effective in treating pyometra, it is not recommended due to high rates of recurrence and lower conception rates. Treatment of canine pyometra using a combination of a dopamine agonist prolactin-inhibiting drug (Cabergoline) and a lower dose of synthetic PGF₂α (Cloprostenol) was found to be the most effective method among the three therapeutic protocols used in the present study.