The Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Dogs

Urinary incontinence is sometimes confused with inappropriate urination

. The difference between the two is vast and requires some understanding. Inappropriate urination is often the result of ignorance, a dog may not know where to urinate and may do so in an inappropriate area (such as in the house), so there is no underlying medical reason for this behavior.

Urinary incontinence is a medical condition and requires veterinary attention. Formerly house-trained pets may start urinating in the house for no apparent reason and many pet owners chastise the pet not knowing that there is something wrong with their pet.

Urinary incontinence can manifest itself in two ways: the leaking of urine from your pet while it is asleep or active, and urination in the house. Another symptom of the condition is irritated skin resulting from frequent contact with urine. Dogs with urinary incontinence will sometimes compulsively lick at their vulva or penile opening.

Hormonal imbalances can cause urinary incontinence and if your dog is diagnosed with a hormone imbalance, your vet may prescribe a drug called Phenlypropanolamine (PPA) to help treat the imbalance. Hormone treatment is given in some cases and due to the low dosage of hormone substitutes required to remedy the condition, the negative side effects are minimal.

Congenital defects can also be a culprit in urinary incontinence. Bladder obstruction and any trauma to the bladder can cause a dog to urinate involuntarily. Bladder problems such as tumors and polyps can cause a dog to be incontinent as well.

Middle-aged female dogs sometimes develop a condition called Primary Sphincter mechanism which causes incontinence. The urethral muscle of the dog becomes weak and its function is compromised resulting in incontinence or leaking of urine. The condition is seen more commonly in spayed dogs than intact females.

If your dog starts wetting the floor you should investigate the matter immediately. Incontinence can be managed with medication so don't delay in taking your dog to the vet. Dogs that are incontinent are sick and need medical treatment; they are not being deliberately vengeful. Incontinence is one of the most common reasons dog owners relinquish or even euthanize their dogs. You owe it to your pet to give him the best chance possible, dogs are not disposable items and when they become sick, it is our responsibility to be there for them as they literally rely on us for their lives.

The Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Dogs

By: Wes Singer

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