Care for Incontinent Pets

Incontinence Causes

Incontinence is not an uncommon ailment affecting dogs of all ages and breeds, but understanding the causes and measures that can improve quality of life – like diapering and regular cleanings – will help owners effectively handle this condition.

Infection is a common cause of urinary incontinence, particularly in younger animals, (although in some cases, it's not true incontinence, since the animal is aware that he/she is urinating.) Bladder stones, tumors and crystals can also trigger inflammation that leads to a lack of bladder control. Muscular weakness in the pelvic region – often seen in spayed females due to a hormonal imbalance - can also result in incontinence during sleep or times of relaxation. In these cases, treatment with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs can often result in a quick and full recovery.

Back injuries and spinal abnormalities are another relatively common cause of incontinence, and treatment can range from prescribing anti-inflammatory medication to surgical intervention. Another less common cause involves an anatomical abnormality, such as vulvovaginal stenosis, which affects female dogs. OId age can lead to senility, which can be another cause of incontinence. An older animal is also often affected by muscular weakness, and when combined with polyuria (a higher volume of urine than is normal, due to illness or medications, like prednisone), the pressure from the full bladder on the weakend muscles results in involuntary urination.

Improving a Pet’s Quality of Life

Diapering and regular washings of the pelvic and other affected regions can greatly improve an incontinent pet’s quality of life.

“When the skin is regularly exposed to the ammonia and other components of urine, you actually see the skin begin to break-down. This results in open sores, infection, inflammation, fur loss, pain and since the skin’s exposure to the urine occurs on a daily basis, there’s no opportunity for healing, so you end up with a chronic problem that can be extremely uncomfortable,” Dr. Levine explained.

Owners can select from two basic types of diapers for an incontinent pet. Disposable diapers tend to be more expensive in the long term, but they’re more convenient, as you simply throw away the soiled diaper. Buying in bulk from pet supply stores and wholesalers can help reduce the cost associated with this type of diaper.

Diaper garments are the second option available to pet owners. These fabric diapers are washable and they are designed for use in conjunction with a woman’s sanitary napkin, which is placed inside the diaper to absorb the urine.

The average diaper garment, priced according to size, costs between $10 and $30, and two are usually required, so that a spare is available when one is in the wash. Long term, diaper garments tend to be more cost effective: there is the one-time cost of the garment, with the sanitary napkins costing between $5 and $7 per month. Another advantage is that these garments can be altered to properly fit a pet, allowing for a more comfortable fit and fewer instances of leakage.

The major disadvantage to this type of diaper is the fact that their effectiveness is directly dependent on the type and style of sanitary napkin that’s used in conjunction with the garment. It’s important to position the pad properly to prevent leakage, so there is an element of trial and error involved. In order to be effective, the sanitary napkin must wick away the moisture so that the urine does not come in contact with the skin. Pads with stay-dry liners tend to be most effective in this regard.

In order to be effective, diapers must be changed as soon as possible after soiling occurs. Leaving a pet in a soiled diaper for an extended period of time will result in rashes, irritation and infections involving the urinary tract, bladder and skin.

Owners should also trim or shave the fur on the belly and on the inside of the thighs. This will help increase airflow to the region, while preventing moisture and bacteria from being held up against the skin.

Daily washings are also a must, to remove urine from the skin. Use an anti-bacterial soap, like Dial, to wash the pelvic region and any other areas that have come in contact with urine, such as the legs. For spot cleanings and at diaper changes, unscented baby wipes can be used. Baby powder can also be helpful in keeping a pet dry and comfortable. Vitamin A and D ointment can also be effective in soothing the skin around the genitals, as it seals out moisture that causes a canine equivalent of diaper rash.

Dry skin can also result from contact with urine, and the frequent washings that are required to help prevent infection. Vitamin E oil can be massaged into the skin once or twice daily to help restore moisture to the dry area. Gentle moisturizers made for sensitive skin, like those found in the baby care aisle, can also be helpful in restoring moisture.

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