Spay incontinence is a medical condition that makes the muscles around the urethra of a female dog weak, causing urine to involuntarily leak. The condition stems from a decrease in estrogen that occurs because of spaying.
-
Significance
-
Normally, spay incontinence is easy to treat and responds well to medications, according to Doctors Foster and Smith.
Types of Medication
-
The most commonly prescribed medication for spay incontinence is phenylpropanolamine. Another option is giving your dog estrogen supplements in the form of diethylstilbestrol.
Time Frame
-
Dogs with urinary incontinence normally need to take prescription medications for the rest of their lives to control the condition. Normally, veterinarians prescribe one dose of the medication per day, gradually weaning the dog to use once per week when symptoms of incontinence are under control.
Risks
-
Potential side effects of phenylpropanolamine in dogs include restlessness, hypertension and reduced appetite, according to Wedgewood Pharmacy. Diethylstilbestrol poses a risk for bone marrow suppression, which has the potential to cause a life-threatening form of anemia.
Considerations
-
Phenylpropanolamine may not be safe for use in dogs with a history of glaucoma, diabetes, hypertension, hyperthyroidism and cardiovascular disease. Diethylstilbestrol interacts with blood thinners and is not usually prescribed for dogs taking these types of medications.
-