Loss of Bladder Control in Dogs

When a dog loses control of its bladder, it is typically a sign of a bigger problem and should be addressed by a veterinarian. If the problem continues without being treated, the underlying condition may worsen or cause damage to the bladder.

Symptoms

A dog that has lost control of his bladder begins to urinate more frequently. Dogs that live inside also start having accidents in the house, even if they are housebroken.

Diagnosis

A veterinarian runs two or three tests to determine the cause of the loss of bladder control. These tests include X-rays, urinalysis and an endoscopy. An endoscopy is a tiny video camera inserted into the bladder.

Treatment

Treatment largely depends on the cause of the loss of control and varies greatly. Treatment may range from giving cranberry juice for a short time to administering medication to surgery.

Common Causes

The most common issues that lead to a loss of bladder control in dogs are bladder infections, urinary tract infections and urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI). USMI is a condition most often seen in female dogs in which the dog loses control of the muscle that stops urine from flowing.

Other Causes

Several other conditions can cause a loss of bladder control in affected dogs. These conditions include diabetes, thyroid disease, Cushing's disease and kidney failure.

References

• Dog Bladder Control

Resources

• 5 Medications for Dog Bladder Control