Incontinence

Causes of incontinence in dogs

There are several possible causes of incontinence in dogs, which can vary depending on the age, sex and breed of the dog. Some of the most common are:

• Hormonal incontinence: this occurs mainly in spayed female dogs that have a lack of estrogen. The hormone is important for the tension of the urethral sphincter. Without oestrogen, the sphincter muscle can slacken and lead to urine leakage, especially when the dog is asleep or relaxed.
• Nerve-related incontinence: This can be caused by injuries or diseases of the spinal cord or brain that affect the nerves responsible for bladder and bowel control. This can occur, for example, with herniated discs, tumors or degenerative diseases such as cauda equina syndrome.
• Anatomical incontinence: This is usually congenital and mainly affects young dogs. It is caused by a malformation of the urinary tract that leads to incomplete closure of the urethra. This can be the case, for example, with an ectopic ureter, where the ureters do not open into the bladder but into the vagina or rectum.
• Infectious incontinence: This is caused by bacterial or fungal infections of the urinary tract, which lead to irritation and inflammation of the bladder and urethra. This can lead to a frequent urge to urinate, pain when urinating and loss of urine. Infections can be promoted by various factors, such as a weakened immune system, diabetes or foreign bodies in the urinary tract.
• Other causes: There are other possible causes of incontinence in dogs, such as overstretching of the bladder due to blockage of the urinary tract, weakness of the pelvic floor muscles due to age or obesity, or psychological stress or anxiety.

Symptoms of incontinence in dogs

The symptoms of incontinence in dogs can vary depending on the cause and severity. Some of the most common are:

• Urine leakage: this can occur in the form of dribbles or jets, especially when the dog is sleeping, lying down, standing up or happy. Urine leakage can also go unnoticed when the dog cleans itself or licks its coat dry.
• Defecation: This can occur in the form of smearing or solid feces, especially when the dog strains, coughs or sneezes. Defecation can also go unnoticed if the dog cleans itself or licks its coat dry.
• Skin irritation: Constant contact with urine or feces can irritate and inflame the skin around the anus or genitals. This can lead to redness, swelling, itching and hair loss. The skin can also become more susceptible to infections.
• Behavioral changes: An incontinent dog may become ashamed, anxious or depressed. It may withdraw, play or eat less or react aggressively. He may also try to hide his tracks by licking or burying them.

Diagnosis of incontinence in dogs

If you suspect that your dog is incontinent, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will carry out a thorough examination to determine the cause of the incontinence. This will include:

• Medical history: the vet will ask you about your dog's age, sex, breed, neutering and health status. They will also want to know how long the incontinence has been present, how often and how severe it is and whether there are any other symptoms.
• Physical examination: The vet will palpate your dog to detect possible injuries, tumors or malformations. He will also take the temperature, pulse and blood pressure and examine the skin and coat.
• Urinalysis: The vet will take a urine sample from your dog to test for infection, blood, sugar or other abnormalities. They may also do a urine culture to determine the type of pathogen.
• Blood test: The vet will take a blood sample from your dog to test for hormones, sugar, kidney function or other abnormalities. He may also perform a hormone level test to rule out or confirm estrogen deficiency.
• Imaging procedures: The veterinarian may use x-rays, ultrasound or other imaging techniques to assess the structure and function of the urinary tract, spinal cord or brain. He may also perform a contrast medium examination to detect possible malformations or blockages.

Treatment of incontinence in dogs

The treatment of incontinence in dogs depends on the cause. Some of the most common treatment options are:

• Medication: there are various medications that can be used depending on the cause of the incontinence. For example, hormones such as oestrogen or testosterone can strengthen the urethral sphincter, antibiotics or antifungals can fight infections or anti-inflammatories can relieve irritation.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the cause of the incontinence. For example, malformations can be corrected, tumors can be removed or pacemakers can be implanted to stimulate the nerves.
• Aids: There are various aids that can help the dog and owner to cope with incontinence. For example, diapers or pads can collect urine or feces and protect the skin, urethral catheters or bladder drains can relieve the urinary tract or acupuncture or physiotherapy can improve nerve function.

Tips for everyday life with an incontinent dog

An incontinent dog needs a lot of love and understanding from its owner. Here are some tips on how you can make life easier for your dog:

• Keep your dog clean and dry: clean your dog's skin and coat regularly with a damp cloth or mild shampoo. Change diapers or underpads frequently and use a protective ointment or cream for the skin.
• Offer your dog frequent outings: Give your dog the opportunity to go outside often to empty his bladder or bowels. Praise him every time he does his business.
• Avoid stress factors: Try to provide your dog with a calm and relaxed environment. Avoid loud noises and stress.