Does your dog or cat have “puddle problems”?
Finding a damp patch on the bedding, noticing your pet is wet around the hindquarters, or discovering they haven't quite made it to the garden or litter box can be frustrating for both you and your pet.
Urinary incontinence is more than an occasional accident. Understanding what may be happening can help you provide the right support for your animal.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine due to a loss of normal bladder control.
The amount of urine leaked can vary considerably. Some pets may have occasional small leaks, particularly when sleeping or resting, while others may dribble urine while walking or have more frequent accidents.
It is also important to distinguish urinary incontinence from inappropriate urination, as the two can have very different causes.
What Can Cause Urinary Incontinence?
There are several possible reasons why a dog or cat may develop urinary incontinence.
Hormonal changes can affect the mechanisms involved in maintaining bladder control, and urinary incontinence is more commonly seen in female dogs, particularly after desexing. Older animals may also become more susceptible as they age.
Other possible factors include:
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Changes associated with ageing
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Neurological problems affecting bladder control
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Arthritis or mobility problems
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Spinal or back injuries
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Congenital abnormalities in younger animals
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Urinary tract problems
Because there are many possible causes, it is important to have new or persistent urinary leakage investigated rather than assuming it is simply a result of ageing.
Signs of Urinary Incontinence
Signs that your pet may be experiencing urinary leakage include:
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Wet patches on bedding where your pet has been sleeping
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Dampness or urine odour around the hindquarters
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Unexpected accidents in a previously house-trained pet
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Dribbling urine while walking or resting
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A small amount of urine leaking when your pet stands up
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Frequent licking around the genital area
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Skin irritation or urine scalding
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Frequent urine spots around the home
Some pets may not even realise they are leaking urine, particularly when they are asleep or relaxed.
When Should You See Your Vet?
Any new change in your pet's urinary habits is worth investigating.
Urinary leakage can sometimes be associated with conditions such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, neurological problems or other urinary tract disorders. Increased thirst and urination can also have a number of underlying causes.
A veterinary examination can help distinguish genuine incontinence from other urinary problems and identify whether further investigation is needed.
Caring for a Pet With Urinary Leakage
While you investigate the underlying cause, there are several simple ways to keep your pet comfortable and protect their skin and bedding.
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Keep bedding clean and dry.
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Choose bedding with removable, washable covers.
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Consider a waterproof layer between the cover and cushion.
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Check the skin around the hindquarters regularly for irritation.
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Gently clean and dry the area if it becomes damp.
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Make sure your pet has easy access to their usual toilet area.
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Give older or less mobile pets more frequent opportunities to toilet.
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Always provide access to fresh, clean drinking water.
Keeping the skin dry is particularly important because prolonged contact with urine can cause irritation.
Diet and Urinary Health
A wholesome, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining your pet's overall health and wellbeing.
Nutritional requirements vary between animals, and pets with ongoing urinary or bladder problems may have specific dietary needs. If you're considering changing your pet's diet or adding supplements, it's best to consider their individual circumstances rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.
Learn more about feeding dogs naturally.
Natural Urinary Support
Some pet owners also choose natural supplements as part of a broader approach to supporting urinary and bladder wellbeing.
Greenpet offers a range of products that may be considered depending on your pet's individual needs, including:
Supplements should be considered as part of an overall approach and are not a substitute for investigating the cause of persistent urinary leakage.
Helping Your Pet Stay Comfortable
Urinary incontinence can be frustrating to manage, but it is important to remember that your pet isn't having accidents deliberately.
With the right investigation, practical care and appropriate support, many owners can make the situation much easier and more comfortable for both themselves and their pet.
If you're unsure what may be appropriate for your dog or cat, ask our animal naturopath for guidance based on your pet's individual circumstances.