Urinary incontinence is a condition characterized by involuntary lack of bladder control. It is common in pets and can be caused by a variety of underlying illnesses or behavioral issues.
Causes of Urinary Incontinence
Common causes of urinary incontinence include urinary tract infections, bladder stones, inflammatory disease, bladder or urinary tract abnormalities, and hormonal issues.
Other risk factors include obesity and conditions such as Cushing’s disease. Cognitive disorders have also been linked to urinary incontinence in pets. The condition can affect pets of any age, but is most common in middle-aged or senior pets.
Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence
Please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible if your pet displays any of the following symptoms of urinary incontinence.
- Urine leakage
- Spots or pools of urine on bedding
- Urinary tract infections
- Wet spots on the lower abdomen
- Skin inflammation and irritation
- Bloating
- Blood in the urine
Diagnosis of Urinary Incontinence
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset of their symptoms. They will then perform a complete physical examination to evaluate your pet’s overall health.
Routine diagnostic tests such as bloodwork and a urinalysis will be carried out to check for infection or other underlying causes of your pet’s symptoms. In addition, your veterinarian may use imaging techniques such as X-rays to check for abnormalities of the urinary tract.
Treatment of Urinary Incontinence
Treatment of urinary incontinence will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. If an infection is present, antibiotics will be prescribed to address the issue. Urinary incontinence caused by obesity can be treated with specialized diets and weight management. Underlying illnesses such as Cushing’s disease will require specialized treatment.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct physical abnormalities of the urinary tract or remove obstructions such as bladder stones. Please speak with your veterinarian about appropriate treatment methods for your pet.
Prevention of Urinary Incontinence
Unfortunately, urinary incontinence is not always preventable. We recommend feeding your pet a healthy, balanced diet to support their overall health. It’s also important to provide regular exercise and maintain your pet’s weight. Finally, please schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to assess your pet’s overall health.
