If you are a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. But did you know that your dog’s bladder can be affected by various problems that will impair its function and cause discomfort or even pain? Urinary bladder dysfunction is a condition that affects the ability of dogs to store and/or empty urine normally. This broad name describes various causes, such as infections, stones, cancers, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, etc. Some common signs and symptoms of urinary bladder dysfunction in dogs are:

• Straining to urinate
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent or inappropriate urination
• Leaking urine
• Abdominal pain

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. This article will provide an overview of some of the most common types of urinary bladder dysfunction in dogs and their treatment options.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the lower urinary tract (the bladder and/or urethra). It can cause urinary bladder dysfunction by irritating the bladder wall and causing inflammation, pain, and increased urge to urinate. Some risk factors for developing a UTI in dogs are:

• Age
• Sex (females are more prone than males)
• Breed (some breeds are more susceptible than others)
• Underlying diseases (such as diabetes, kidney disease, etc.)
• Poor hygiene
• Stress

A UTI is diagnosed by performing a urinalysis and/or urine culture. A urinalysis can reveal the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells, or crystals in the urine. A urine culture can identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and their sensitivity to antibiotics. A UTI is treated by prescribing antibiotics and/or other medications to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Some tips on how to prevent or reduce the recurrence of UTIs in dogs are:

• Increasing water intake
• Maintaining good hygiene
• Avoiding stress
• Feeding a high-quality diet
• Using cranberry supplements or probiotics (with your vet’s approval)

Urinary Bladder Stones (Uroliths)

Urinary bladder stones are solid deposits of minerals and organic substances that form in the bladder. They can cause urinary bladder dysfunction by obstructing the flow of urine, damaging the bladder wall, and causing infection. Some common types of urinary bladder stones in dogs are:

• Struvite (composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate)
• Calcium oxalate (composed of calcium and oxalate)
• Urate (composed of uric acid)
• Cystine (composed of cystine)

The type of stone depends on various factors, such as the pH of the urine, the diet, the genetics, and the metabolism of the dog. Urinary bladder stones are diagnosed by performing a physical examination, a urinalysis, an x-ray, and/or an ultrasound. A physical examination can reveal a palpable mass in the abdomen or signs of pain or discomfort. A urinalysis can reveal the presence of crystals, blood, or bacteria in the urine. An X-ray can show the stones’ size, shape, number, and location. An ultrasound can provide more detailed information about the stones and their effect on the bladder wall. Urinary bladder stones are treated by dissolving them with dietary changes and/or medications (for some types) or by removing them surgically (for others). Some tips on how to prevent or reduce the formation of urinary bladder stones in dogs are:

• Feeding a balanced diet
• Avoiding excess protein or minerals
• Monitoring urine pH
• Providing fresh water at all times
• Encouraging frequent urination

Urinary Bladder Cancer (Transitional Cell Carcinoma)

Urinary bladder cancer is a malignant tumor that originates from the cells lining the bladder. It can cause urinary bladder dysfunction by invading the bladder wall and surrounding tissues, causing bleeding, obstruction, and infection. Some risk factors for developing bladder cancer in dogs are:

• Age (older dogs are more likely than younger ones)
• Sex (females are more likely than males)
• Breed (some breeds are more prone than others, such as Scottish terriers, Shetland sheepdogs, beagles, etc.)
• Exposure to environmental toxins or carcinogens (such as cigarette smoke, pesticides, herbicides, etc.)

Urinary bladder cancer is diagnosed by performing a physical examination, a urinalysis, a urine cytology (cell analysis), an x-ray, an ultrasound, and/or a biopsy. A physical examination can reveal signs of pain or discomfort in the abdomen or pelvic area. A urinalysis can reveal the presence of blood, bacteria, or abnormal cells in the urine. A urine cytology can confirm the presence of cancerous cells in the urine sample. An X-ray can show the size and location of the tumor and any signs of metastasis (spread) to other organs. An ultrasound can provide more detailed information about the tumor and its effect on the bladder wall and surrounding tissues. A biopsy can provide a definitive diagnosis of the type and grade of the cancer.

Urinary bladder cancer is treated by using surgery (if possible), chemotherapy (oral or intravesical), radiation therapy (external or internal), immunotherapy (such as Piroxicam), or palliative care (to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life). Surgery may be recommended to remove all or part of the bladder tumor (or tumors). 

However, it is difficult to completely excise bladder tumors without removing essential parts of the bladder and urinary tract, so debulking (partial removal) may be the only option. Chemotherapy may be given orally (such as Mitoxantrone or Vinblastine) or intravesically (directly into the bladder through a catheter, such as Mitomycin C). Chemotherapy can help shrink the tumor and slow down its growth. Radiation therapy may be given externally (using a machine that delivers high-energy beams to the tumor area) or internally (using radioactive implants that are inserted into or near the tumor). Radiation therapy can also help shrink the tumor and kill cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be given orally (such as Piroxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that has anti-cancer effects) or intravenously (such as Interleukin-2, a protein that stimulates the immune system to fight cancer). Immunotherapy can help boost the body’s natural defenses against cancer. Palliative care may be given to relieve symptoms such as pain, bleeding, infection, or urinary obstruction. Palliative care may include medications, fluids, antibiotics, catheterization, or stenting.

Some tips on how to prevent or reduce the risk of urinary bladder cancer in dogs are:

• Avoiding smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
• Limiting exposure to pesticides or herbicides
• Feeding a high-quality diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
• Spaying female dogs before their first heat cycle
• Regularly checking your dog’s urine for signs of blood or abnormality

Conclusion

Urinary bladder dysfunction is a common problem in dogs that can have various causes and consequences. It can be diagnosed and treated with different methods depending on the type and severity of the condition. It can be prevented or managed with some lifestyle changes and regular veterinary check-ups. If you notice any signs or symptoms of urinary bladder dysfunction in your dog, you should seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in your dog’s health and well-being!