Vaginitis

Vaginitis describes inflammation of the vagina. In dogs and cats, this can occur at any age, though patterns differ — young female dogs may develop it before their first season, while in adult animals it often appears alongside other changes in the reproductive tract or surrounding structures. The inflammation may arise on its own or reflect something happening elsewhere in the body. Owners most commonly notice discharge from the vulva — this may be clear, cloudy, yellow, or streaked with blood. Some animals lick at the area more than usual, and the skin around the vulva may appear red or swollen. In many cases, the animal otherwise seems well, and the signs are subtle enough to be noticed only during grooming or rest. This page explores what vaginitis can look like when it first appears, what may be happening beneath the surface, how the picture is built through examination and testing, and the range of approaches that exist depending on the underlying pattern. The goal is to help you understand the landscape, not to direct a particular course.