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Your
pet's bladder has a big job to do. After the kidneys
have eliminated toxins from the blood, this membranous
sac is a storage tank for wastes. As the bladder
becomes full, urine is passed out of the body. Inflammation,
infection and urinary disorders can impede a dog
or cat's bladder from functioning correctly. The
results can be painful and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Cat & Dog Bladder Problems & Cystitus
Has
your pet been urinating more often than usual? A
bacterial infection could be causing inflammation
of the bladder, or cystitis. Animals suffering from
cystitis may pass only a little bloody urine or
they may exhibit frequent urination, straining and
constant licking under the tail.
If
you suspect that your pet has cystitis, it's a good
idea to get a urine sample for your veterinarian.
Infections can be treated with antibiotics, but
veterinary attention is crucial. Should the condition
worsen, your pet's bladder could become blocked.
Dog & Cat Urination Problems
A
dog or cat should show no signs of discomfort when
urinating. Crying out in pain or straining are signs
of a serious problem. Infection may be the culprit,
as can a buildup of minerals, or stones, in the
bladder. Minute crystals or sandy sludge can plug
a dog or cat's urethra. This particularly affects
males, who have narrower urethras. The animal may
be able to pass only a little cloudy or bloody urine-or
none at all. Medical attention is vital. An animal
can die within 2 days if unable to pass urine. Urinary
acidifiers, dietary changes and antibiotics may
be prescribed. Severe blockage may require a urinary
catheter or surgery to solve the problem.
Soiling
in inappropriate places or dribbling urine can mean
that your dog or cat has lost bladder control. This
may be the result of injury or infection, but it
can also be a natural part of aging-and might occur
when your elderly pet is excited, or simply when
he gets up and down. Incontinence is common in older
female dogs, notably spayed cocker spaniels, Doberman
pinschers, springer spaniels and Old English sheepdogs.
This condition is alleviated with female hormones.
Incontinence in dogs can also be caused by displacement
of the bladder; surgery may be required to move
it to a more normal position.
Incontinent Cats & Dogs with Leaky Bladders
You
can help your incontinent pet with these simple
tips. It's a good idea to take your dog out more
frequently, especially when she's woken up from
a nap or a night's sleep. Canine-sized diapers are
available that can help prevent messes in the home.
Although you may be tempted to limit your pet's
water intake, be sure to ask your vet first.
If
your cat is suffering from incontinence, Experts
suggest that you set up a couple more litterboxes
in your home. Make sure there is at least one on
every floor. Dump solid waste daily and change the
litter frequently. Many cats will refuse to use
a box if it is not kept clean enough. In order to
keep your geriatric cat near a litter box, you may
consider confining your pet to a cattery cage when
you are not at home or when asleep.
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