subject: The Six Primary Causes of Canine Incontinence [print this page] The Six Primary Causes of Canine Incontinence
There are six primary canine incontinence causes most of which cannot be treated 100% successfully. To make matters worse often times the uncontrollable leaking of urine from the bladder creates a whole set of secondary concerns such as an increased risk for bladder infection and severe skin irritation and ulcers, especially around the urethra. Besides the six primary canine incontinence causes there are other possible triggers that can be at the heart of the loss of urinary control including diabetes, Cushing's, kidney failure, and certain medications. These four additional canine incontinence causes will need to be ruled out, or confirmed, allowing you veterinarian to gain a clear understanding of the big picture before putting together a treatment plan.
The six primary canine incontinence causes are:
*Aging: A seasoned citizen dog is generally classified as being over nine years old. This actually varies somewhat depending on the size and breed but nevertheless nine is about the mean. Age and age related disorders are by far the most common out of our six canine incontinence causes. Examples would be loss of bladder strength, bladder thickening, and senility.
*Hormone imbalances: Some studies suggest that hormone responsive incontinence is the most common causes of urine leakage during sleep. If your vet determines this is the cause chances are pretty good they will prescribe a lifelong regime of hormone replacement therapy.
*Bladder infections: Bacterial infections of the bladder aren't considered by purists to be true incontinence but since they can play a role both as one of the primary canine incontinence causes and a contributing factor to making it worse this condition is worth spotlighting. This may be the first thing your veterinarian looks for when searching for answers.
*Brain or spinal cord diseases: Often these are genetic, birth defect related, or age related. If one of the above is the suspected cause your veterinarian will look for clues as to the presence of nervous system disease.
*Stones or uroliths: There are two types of stones; calcium and struvite. Both types are capable of partially blocking the urethra and causing incontinence. Raising or lowering the urine ph levels through diet (depending on the stone type) will often eliminate this problem.
*Birth defects: Sometimes the tubes which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder are not formed properly. This condition is called a ectopic ureter and may causes puppies to drip urine. Dog breeds most vulnerable to birth defects related incontinence are Labrador Retrievers, Miniature poodles, Siberian huskies, Collies, and Fox Terriers.
Canine incontinence causes Solutions
The key to treatment is determining the cause or causes. If no cause can be found drugs formulated to restore bladder strength may be prescribed; phenylpropanolamine, estrogen, and ephedrine. These drugs tend to produce some side effects and their effectiveness may diminish over time.
For this reason many pet owners are giving natural urinary tract supplements a try. These formulas work to condition the entire urinary tract and protect against bladder infection. Another advantage is that they can be safely used in conjunction with other treatments.
