Urge Incontinence in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis & Management

Urge incontinence, also known as bladder spasms in dogs, refers to the involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles that cause a sudden and strong need to urinate. This condition often leads to involuntary urine leakage in the home and can significantly affect your dog's quality of life. While it can affect any dog, it is more commonly seen in older dogs whose bladder muscles weaken with age.

This issue is a medical condition rather than a behavioural one, meaning it's important to approach it with care and understanding. The bladder spasms cause the dog an urgent need to urinate without warning, and the dog has no control over the urine that is expelled.

What Causes Urge Incontinence in Dogs?

The main cause of urge incontinence is the involuntary spasming of the bladder muscles. This can be due to several factors, including:

• Age-related weakening of bladder muscles
• Early spaying or neutering that affects hormone levels important for bladder control, such as oestrogen and progesterone
• Bladder stones that irritate the bladder lining
• Bladder cancer
• Inflammation or infections of the bladder
• Blockages in the bladder causing spasms
• Neurological issues affecting the pathways between the brain and bladder muscles
• Nerve damage or injury
• Prostate problems in male dogs

Understanding the specific cause is essential to treating the condition effectively.

Recognising the Signs and Diagnosis

Dogs with urge incontinence may leak small amounts of urine throughout the day or suddenly rush to urinate without warning. Dogs that are usually house-trained may try to hide their accidents due to feeling anxious or guilty. Watch for damp patches in the home or a persistently wet or damp rear end.

Veterinarians will often conduct a thorough examination, taking history and performing tests such as urine analysis, blood work, imaging, and neurological assessments to diagnose the underlying cause.

Managing Urge Incontinence in Your Dog

Once diagnosed, your vet will offer several management strategies tailored to your dog's needs. These may include:

• Increasing opportunities for your dog to go outside to urinate, even during the night if necessary
• Medications such as hormone replacement therapy if the incontinence stems from early spaying/neutering
• Muscle-strengthening drugs like phenylpropanolamine to improve bladder control
• Treating any underlying conditions such as infections or bladder stones

Never punish your dog for accidents related to urge incontinence; it is a medical issue beyond their control.

Additional Tips for Owners

• Create a consistent toileting schedule to reduce accidents
• Use waterproof bed covers or mats if your dog tends to urinate while resting
• Regularly monitor your dog's urination habits and general health for changes
• Keep communication open with your vet for follow-up adjustments to treatment

Conclusion

Urge incontinence or bladder spasms in dogs is a challenging yet manageable condition. With proper veterinary diagnosis and tailored treatment, most dogs can lead comfortable, happy lives despite this condition. Early recognition and compassionate care are key to improving your dog's wellbeing and your peace of mind.

If you notice signs of urinary incontinence in your dog, please seek veterinary advice promptly to explore the best options for your beloved pet.