URINARY INCONTINENCE IN DOGS By Elizabeth Racine, DVM
Is your dog waking up to a wet bed? Are you finding spots of urine around the house when your dog was previously well-trained? Your dog may be experiencing urinary incontinence. This condition can occur in dogs of any age, but adult females are especially prone to developing it. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN URINARY INCONTINENCE AND INAPPROPRIATE URINATION?
When you bring your dog to the veterinary clinic for urinary accidents in the house, one of the first things your veterinarian will try to ascertain is whether your dog’s accidents are due to incontinence or inappropriate urination. Urinary incontinence is involuntary and, in many cases, your dog may be unaware that the problem is even occurring. When a dog is incontinent, urinary accidents may occur when the dog is relaxed, often while sleeping or resting. Some incontinent dogs will dribble urine without even noticing. Alternatively, inappropriate urination is often voluntary – the dog will get up, posture, and urinate in a specific place on purpose. Differentiating between these two types of urination is an important step in the diagnostic process.
WHAT CAUSES URINARY INCONTINENCE?
The most common cause of urinary incontinence in adult dogs is urethral sphincter mechanism incontinence (USMI). This condition occurs primarily in females, typically 2-4 years after they are spayed, although male dogs may be affected as well. With USMI, the muscles of the urethra fail to contract, allowing urine to leak out. A number of factors can predispose dogs to developing USMI, including breed, having a docked tail, and obesity. Other causes of urinary incontinence in dogs include neurologic disorders, anatomic abnormalities, bladder hypercontractility, urine retention (overflow incontinence), and bladder muscle atony or weakness.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF URINARY INCONTINENCE?
Many dogs with urinary incontinence initially present to the veterinary clinic for having accidents in the house. However, these accidents are unique in that they often occur when the dog is asleep or resting, and the dog may be unaware that he or she has urinated. Other symptoms of incontinence can include: • Persistent wetness around the vulva or prepuce • Dribbling urine • Urinating less volume than usual during normal voiding 40
Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • November/December 2021
HOW IS URINARY INCONTINENCE TREATED?
Urethral sphincter mechanism incontinence (USMI) is commonly treated with medication. Phenylpropanolamine (PAA) is one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for USMI. This drug works by acting on receptors in the urethra to increase urethral tone, thereby reducing urine leakage. Estrogen may also be given to dogs that do not respond to PAA or those that experience USMI following spaying. For patients that do not respond to medical therapy, surgical treatment options are available. Patients experiencing other types of urinary incontinence may be treated with medical or surgical therapies, depending on the underlying cause of the incontinence.
WILL MY DOG ALWAYS BE INCONTINENT?
Most dogs with USMI respond well to medication and do not experience incontinence as long as they continue to take their medication(s) daily. The prognosis varies for dogs with incontinence due to other underlying causes. Your veterinarian is your best resource to help you determine your treatment options as well as the chances of your dog returning to full urinary continence. The good news is that dogs with incontinence can continue to live full and happy lives, but may need some extra care to ensure they remain healthy. Incontinent dogs are more likely to develop urinary tract infections, so frequent check-ups with your veterinarian may be necessary. You’ll also need to ensure your dog stays clean and dry. Diapers and pads specifically designed for male and female dogs are available to help make managing incontinence easier. Be sure to monitor your dog’s skin for any signs of urine scalding or skin infection, which are common in incontinent dogs, and contact your veterinarian if these conditions occur. With a few adjustments, your dog can continue to live a normal and active life!
