Cushing's disease is a glandular disease. When the pituitary or adrenal glands secrete too many hormones, the excess hormones cause hyperadrenocorticism, commonly called Cushing's. These excess hormones cause metabolism and health problems for the dog. Side effects include hair loss, skin problems and severe thirst or hunger. Incontinence is one of the most visible side effects of untreated Cushing's.
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Symptoms
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Typically a Cushing's dog is overly hungry and thirsty. He drinks water excessively and urinates often. Even when a dog is housebroken, he may accidentally piddle indoors. A wet bed under the dog or wet spot where the dog lays down is a common sign of incontinence. An owner may find urine dribbles on carpet or floor where the dog tried to get outside.
Cause
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Four out of five dogs with Cushing's consume more water than before they developed the disease. A dog may drink from two to 10 times more water due to the disease. The bladder fills quickly and often overflows from the excess water. The dog cannot control the flow and dribbles urine. An older dog, especially a female dog, may already have a weak bladder sphincter due to age. The urination pressure is more than she can control.
Infections
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Urinary tract infections are common with Cushing's. Cushing's affects a dog's overall health and reduces resistance to disease. Combined with the strain of excess water consumption, the urinary tract becomes infected. The irritation of the urinary tract affecting the bladder and urethra causes leaking urine. Untreated, these infections lead to more serious ailments affecting the bladder and kidneys.
Diagnosis
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Consult your veterinarian when your dog leaks urine. The veterinarian will run lab tests to determine the cause. Urinary tract problems are often due to bacterial infections treatable with drugs. Older dogs may be treated with hormones or other medication to help control weak sphincter muscles. If the dog is diagnosed with Cushing's, treatment depends on the type of Cushing's and the dog owner's preference. Each Cushing's drug has risks and benefits depending on the dog.
Considerations
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In some cases, incontinence cannot be completely controlled with antibiotics or drugs. Surgery or injections may help. The dog may respond partly to drugs but still have leaking at bedtime. Lifestyle changes such as doggy diapers, waterproof bed pads and washable bedding help control the spilled urine. The dog needs to be gently washed and cleaned as the urine causes sores and rashes if left on the skin. Walk the dog more often for short distances. Do not let the dog get too tired as deep exhausted sleep leads to more leakage.
Stress
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The dog is often uncomfortable and looks guilty when it has leaked urine. Avoid stressing the dog with punishment or discipline. Stress or excitement causes urinary spasms that lead to more accidents. Often people have their dog euthanized as they do not know how to handle the incontinence. This is a drastic step that may be avoided with treatment and home changes. Keep your dog clean, dry and content to minimize stress on you and your dog.
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