Efficacy of combined mifepristone, cabergoline, and prostaglandin F2alpha; therapy for non-surgical management of open pyometra in intact female dogs: A comparative study

Abstract

Canine pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection prevalent in intact female dogs, demands effective non-surgical treatments to preserve reproductive potential. This study assessed the efficacy of combined mifepristone, cabergoline, and prostaglandin F2α therapy in 24 bitches with open cervix pyometra, diagnosed through clinical signs, hematobiochemical profiles, and ultrasonography. Dogs were allocated to two groups (n=12 each). Group 1 received mifepristone (2.5 milligrams per kilogram twice daily, 4.5 days), cabergoline (5 micrograms per kilogram once daily, 9 days), and amoxicillin plus sulbactam (12.5 milligrams per kilogram twice daily, 5 days). Group 2 received the same regimen plus prostaglandin F2α (1 microgram per kilogram subcutaneously, alternate days). Assessments on days 0, 4, 7, and 9 revealed significant reductions (p<0.05) in total leucocyte count and uterine horn diameter by day 7. Group 1 achieved a 95% success rate (one case required ovariohysterectomy); Group 2 achieved 100% success, with faster uterine evacuation. No adverse effects were observed. This synergistic protocol, leveraging progesterone antagonism, prolactin suppression, and luteolysis, offers a robust non-surgical option for open pyometra, particularly for breeders in resource-limited settings, with implications for veterinary theriogenology and biochemistry.