Urinary incontinence in bitches

A study collated by the Royal Veterinary College (VetCompass project) found that urinary incontinence affects 3.14% of bitches overall, but some high risk breeds with over 15% of bitches suffering.

The high risk breeds include the Irish setter, dobermann, bearded collie, rough collie and dalmatian.

The research also found that overweight (with 1.31 times the odds), older (with 3.86 times the odds) and neutered bitches (with 2.23 times the odds) were more likely to get the condition.

Sadly, it was also found that urinary incontinence was recorded as either contributory or the main reason for death in 16.7% of the deaths recorded during the research period.

If you suspect that your pet is incontinent, please contact the practice as there are treatments available.

References

RCV (2017). ‘Dramatic’ breed predispositions found for urinary incontinence in bitches, Journal of the British Veterinary Association Vol 13, 338, doi: 10.1136/vr.j4474