As your canine friend ages, they can come incontinent due to a weak or uncontrollable bladder. It is a cause for concern for pet parents but the good news is that it can be cured. Before we jump onto the treatment methods of urinary incontinence, let us start from the beginning – symptoms and causes.
Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence in Dogs
Dogs, especially older ones can experience urinary incontinence. The symptoms of such a problem include the following:
- Physical disorder
- Leaking in large quantities throughout the day
- Inflamed or irritated skin
- Blood in urine
- Strong urine smell emitting from their body
- Inactive
- Excessive thirst
- Sleeping the whole day
Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Dogs
There are several circumstances that can lead to urinary incontinence in dogs. Some of the more common causes are listed below.
#1. Age Factor
One of the main reasons that cause urinary incontinence in dogs is the age factor. As dogs grow older, their bladder becomes weaker which in turn leads to such a problem.
#2. Behavioral Issues
Most dogs while acting submissive can leak out urination. This behavioral issue may not be a serious problem but could possibly be linked to urinary incontinence. Visit a vet as soon as possible to rule out any major health issues.
#3. Bladder Stones
Bladder or kidney stones in the urethra usually do not cause actual incontinence but your pal may be incontinent as the trapped urine drips around the stones. If blood or abdomen pain is accompanied with the urine then it may be a serious cause for concern. Immediately contact your vet in such a situation.
#4. Canine Cognitive Disorder
This particular disorder largely strikes adult dogs and might cause your pet to make him totally unaware of him going to the bathroom. It exhibits symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and can be a serious issue.
#5. Ectopic Ureter
Another reason that may cause urinary incontinence is ectopic ureter which is a birth defect. This condition occurs when the ureter that was supposed to carry urine to the bladder, ends up sending it elsewhere such as the urethra.
#6. Hormonal
This occurs in neutered dogs of both sexes but more commonly in female dogs where the pet leaks urine while resting. Hormonal-responsive incontinence can occur for several years after either spaying or neutering.
#7. Urinary Tract Infection
This infection could be another reason behind urinary incontinence which causes scarring of the lining of the dog’s bladder.
Treating Urinary Incontinence in Dogs
Treatment of urinary incontinence will differ based on the underlying cause. Hence, the first step towards treating this condition is by visiting your nearby vet. He will go through the entire problem and after proper examination, lay out a treatment plan for your pal. Treatment methods include:
- Antibiotics
- Homeopathic products
- Hormone therapy
- Injections
- Tablets or Capsules
Though urinary incontinence is generally a problem that can hardly be controlled (age factor), it is imperative for pet parents to detect the condition early to rule out any serious urinary problems. Thus, do all you can to keep your pet safe because that’s what you signed up for, right?
You may also like to read: Ageing Symptoms In Dogs That You Should Never Ignore