Spinal trauma, particularly damage to the lower spine, can sometimes result in incontinence in cats. Incontinence may be permanent if nerve damage is involved, or temporary if the trauma is the result of a broken pelvis or tail.
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Cause of Spinal Trauma
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Spinal damage and trauma usually occur after an accident, such as being hit by a car or landing the wrong way from a fall. Spinal trauma is uncommon, and when present, other injuries are usually present elsewhere in the body.
Spinal Trauma and Incontinence
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Spinal trauma often affects the hind legs and the urinary functions, leading to incontinence. This happens if the nerves controlling the function have been damaged.
Handling an Incontinent Cat
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Most cats with permanent spinal trauma are euthanized, though some owners choose to keep their pets and care for them. There are techniques to help an incontinent cat urinate or defecate, and the vet can explain these.
Permanent Damage vs. Temporary Incontinence
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Permanent incontinence often occurs with nerve damage associated with spinal trauma. Occasionally, incontinence is associated with a broken pelvis or amputated tail, and the ability to urinate will return over time.
Surgery to Lessen Incontinence
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If incontinence does become permanent, surgery may sometimes help the problem. Some owners have their cat's large intestines removed to aid the flow and prevent megacolon, or the complete filling of the large intestine.
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