Urinary Incontinence - Editor's Choice

Have you ever noticed that when you wake in the morning your pet's bed is damp and smells of urine?  If so, it is possible that your pet is suffering from Urinary Incontinence.  This problem causes your pet to have little accidents, which usually occur at night when they are lying down.  The animal is not deliberately urinating but as a result of the condition, urine will dribble out without the pet being able to control it.

There are several medical reasons that could contribute to this condition such as urethral valves that are not working properly, urinary system defects, cancer or prostate problems in male pets.  This condition can affect both males and females but overall the problem occurs much more commonly among older female pets.

Now this is not the same thing as when on occasion your dog gets excited to see someone or is nervous and as a result, piddles on the floor.  This type of situation is purely a behavioral problem, not a medical one such as urinary incontinence is.

There are a few different types of homeopathic treatments that you can try if your pet has this type of problem, such as Causticum, Gelsemium and Turnera.  The specific cause of the problem should be properly diagnosed to help determine the best course of treatment.  Remember, this is a condition that your pet has no control over and he or she should not be punished for wetting the bed at night.  Your pet likely is no more happy about it than you are.

There are a couple of things that you can do to help make the situation a little easier and more comfortable for your pet.  If you have a dog that is affected by urinary incontinence, then take them out for the last evening pee immediately before you go to bed at night, and as soon as you wake up in the morning.  Your cat would probably appreciate it if you were able to move the litter box near to where it sleeps so that he or she can relieve its bladder during the night.  Change the pets bedding daily and in cases where the animal sleeps on a cushion or pillow as a bed, wrap it in heavy plastic and cover with bedding that you can easily clean.  This will help to cut down on and eliminate smell and potential health risks.