There are many problems that can affect a dog’s lower urinary system.
- Stones, crystals or debris accumulation in the bladder or urethra
- Bladder inflammation or infection
- Incontinence from excessive water drinking or weak bladder/hormonal issue
- Trauma
- Cancer
- Stress
- Spinal cord abnormalities
- Congenital abnormality
- Prostate disease
The most common lower urinary tract disease in dogs over seven years of age is incontinence, related to a weak urinary sphincter muscle, allowing urine to leak out.
Bacterial infections are also common.
Endocrine diseases such as adrenal disease and diabetes mellitus can predispose dogs to bacterial infection of the lower urinary tract.
The following signs may indicate that your dog is having trouble with his urinary tract
- Inability to urinate or only passing a small amount of urine
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Fever
- Loss of bladder control, dribbling urine
- Increased amount and/or frequency of urination
- Straining and/or crying out in pain when trying to pass urine
- Soiling in inappropriate places
- Constant licking of urinary opening
- Strong odor to the urine
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss
- Severe back pain
- Increased water consumption
Untreated lower urinary problems can lead to serious medical problems in addition to causing discomfort for your pet.
Bladder infections can move to the kidneys and cause life-threatening infections. Stones can cause partial or complete obstruction of the urethra, preventing a dog from urinating. This medical emergency can lead to kidney failure and/or rupture of the bladder, and can prove fatal if the obstruction is not relieved right away.
Sources
Veterinary Centers of America
American College of Veterinary Surgeons
UC Davis
Washington State University
American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Petmd.com
vetinfo.com
vetnutrition.edu
vetnutrition.tufts.edu
prime.vetmed.wsu.edu
noahcommpendium.co.uk
Dogs Naturally
Dr Conor Brady
This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the advice provided by your veterinarian. |
