Urinary incontinence is a condition that involves the involuntary passing of urine. This pet health problem can affect cats and dogs of any age but it is more common among obese and older pets. There are many things that can cause pet incontinence including problems with the bladder or urethra, brain abnormalities, and damage to the spinal cord.
How Incontinence Urinary Affects Your Pet
Cat and dog incontinence can be an extremely frustrating problem for both you and your pet. Additionally, in some cases of incontinence, the skin around the genitals of your pet may become inflamed and/or raw. This can be quite uncomfortable and even painful for your dog or cat. Furthermore, if the skin becomes raw, the area will be more vulnerable to infections.
Common Symptoms of Incontinence Urinary
Symptoms of incontinence in dogs and cats are quite obvious; however, they can also be indicative of other pet health conditions. For example, submissive urination and bladder infections have many of the same symptoms as incontinence. With that said, it is essential that you obtain a proper diagnosis from your veterinarian if you notice any of the symptoms listed below. Common Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence in Pets: Urine Leakage, Involuntary Urination, Urine-Soaked Hair on the Abdomen or Between the Rear Legs, Wet Spots on Bedding/Furniture, Frequent Urinary Tract Infections, Skin Inflammation Around the Genitalia and Rashes or Sores Around the Genitalia.
Treatments for Incontinence Urinary
There are many different treatment methods for pet incontinence, and your veterinarian will discuss these options with you. If your pet has a urinary tract infection, inflamed skin, rashes or sores, topical and/or oral antibiotics will be prescribed. If your pet’s incontinence is caused by obesity, a special diet will be required. If there is no apparent cause for the incontinence, various drugs can help to strengthen the muscles that hold urine in your pet’s bladder. Some of the most common drugs prescribed for this purpose include phenylpropanolamine, estrogen and ephedrine. In cases where there is an obstruction or mass causing your pet’s incontinence, surgery can correct the problem.
Breeds Affected
There are many things that can cause pet incontinence; thus, most any breed of pet can develop the condition. However, there are some breeds of dogs that are commonly born with a condition known as ectopic ureter, which can cause incontinence. Breeds most vulnerable to Urinary Incontinence: Siberian Huskies, Miniature Poodles, West Highland White Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Welsh Corgis, Collies and Wire-Haired Fox Terriers.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
