Rasha R1, Hana Fathima1, Adhithyan A D1, Alan K J1 and N S Sunilkumar21BVSc&AH graduate students2Assistant Professor, Department of Veterinary AnatomyCollege of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, Kerala, India Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences Universitydoi.org/10.5281/IndianVetMagazine.23495644
AbstractUrinary incontinence is a frequently encountered disorder of the lower urinary tract in female dogs and is characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine resulting from abnormalities in urine storage or urethral sphincter function. The condition occurs most commonly in spayed, middle-aged to older bitches and can have significant welfare implications owing to chronic urine leakage, recurrent urinary tract infections, dermatitis and reduced quality of life. Urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI) represents the most prevalent cause of acquired urinary incontinence in female dogs, although congenital abnormalities, urinary tract disease, neoplasia and neurological disorders may also contribute to its development. Accurate diagnosis requires a systematic evaluation involving clinical history, physical and neurological examinations, laboratory investigations and advanced imaging techniques. Current therapeutic approaches include medical management with sympathomimetic agents and estrogenic compounds, as well as surgical interventions for refractory or congenital cases. This review summarises the current understanding of the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of urinary incontinence in female dog