Abstract
BACKGROUND: Urolithiasis and cystitis are major contributors to urinary tract morbidity in dogs, particularly in working K9 units. Due to overlapping symptoms, proper differentiation is crucial. AIM: This study aimed to assess the clinical, hematological, biochemical, microbiological, and ultrasonographic parameters of urolithiasis and cystitis in Iraqi police dogs. METHODS: A total of 45 K9 dogs aged 3-10 years, including 10 healthy controls, 5 with urolithiasis, and 11 with cystitis (acute/chronic), were assessed at Al-Najaf's K9 unit, Iraq. Hematological, biochemical, urinalysis, microbiological testing, and abdominal ultrasonography were performed for clinical evaluation. Statistical analysis included analysis of variance and LSD test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Dogs with urolithiasis exhibited abdominal pain, dysuria, hematuria, and urinary retention. Hematologically, they showed reduced RBC counts and hemoglobin levels alongside increased WBCs, neutrophils, and platelets. Biochemical analysis revealed elevated levels of total protein. Urinalysis revealed proteinuria, hematuria, and calcium oxalate/struvite calculi. Ultrasound confirmed hyperechoic bladder stones with acoustic shadowing. Patients with cystitis presented with dysuria, pollakiuria, stranguria, and periuria. Abdominal palpation revealed distended bladders, especially in the female patients. A significant increase in body temperature (p < 0.05) was noted. Hematological findings included elevated TLC, neutrophils, monocytes, band neutrophils, platelets, and ESR. Biochemical analysis showed increased urea, creatinine, and total protein levels. Urinalysis revealed acidic urine pH (6.2 ± 0.05). Microbiological culture (n = 26) isolated Escherichia coli (57.69%), Staphylococcus spp. (34.61%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15.38%), and other less common pathogens. Ultrasonography revealed bladder wall thickening, corrugation, and hyperechoic luminal content. CONCLUSION: Multimodal diagnostic protocols enable precise differentiation between dogs with urinary tract diseases. The results recommend routine checkups in K9 units for health maintenance and early diagnosis.