EXPRESSING YOUR PET’S BLADDER
Caring for a pet with neurological issues can be challenging, and one essential aspect of their care is expressing their bladder. Pets with spinal cord injuries or other neurological conditions may be unable to urinate on their own, leading to potential health risks. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you safely and effectively express your pet’s bladder at home while preventing future bladder problems.
Disclaimer: This webpage is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before attempting any new procedures with your pet.
Understanding Bladder Expression
Bladder expression is a technique used to manually empty a pet’s bladder when they are unable to do so on their own. This is often necessary for pets with neurological issues that affect the nerves controlling the bladder, such as spinal cord injuries, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), or degenerative myelopathy. If left untreated, this condition can contribute to bladder problems in dogs and bladder problems in cats, including infections and incontinence.
Why is Bladder Expression Important?
If a pet’s bladder is not emptied regularly, they may develop serious health problems, including:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Bladder stones
Kidney damage
Incontinence and bladder overflow
Regular bladder expression helps prevent these complications, ensuring that your pet remains comfortable and healthy. Addressing bladder problems in dogs and bladder problems in cats early can also reduce the risk of long-term health issues.
When to Express Your Pet's Bladder
Your veterinarian will determine how often you need to express your pet’s bladder, but most pets require bladder expression three to four times a day to prevent urine retention and infection.
Signs that your pet may need their bladder expressed include:
Straining to urinate with little to no output
A bloated or firm abdomen
Dribbling urine involuntarily
Showing signs of discomfort when touched near the bladder area
If left untreated, these symptoms may worsen, contributing to severe bladder problems in dogs and bladder problems in cats that require immediate medical attention.
HOW TO EXPRESS YOUR PET’S BLADDER
Follow these steps to safely express your pet’s bladder:
Video Demonstrations
To help you visualize the bladder expression process, we have included instructional videos from trusted sources.
Dog Bladder Expression
Additional Tips for Successful Bladder Expression
Stay Calm: Speak to your pet in a soothing voice and gently pet them to keep them relaxed.
Use Warmth: Applying a warm compress to your pet’s abdomen can help relax the bladder muscles.
Be Patient: It may take time for your pet to get used to the process—gentle persistence is key.
Watch for Changes: If you notice blood in the urine, increased difficulty expressing, or signs of pain, contact your veterinarian immediately, as these could indicate bladder problems in dogs and bladder problems in cats that require medical attention.
NOT A CURRENT PATIENT?
For pets with neurological issues, bladder expression is an essential part of their daily care routine. Regular expression helps prevent infections, kidney damage, and discomfort. By following these steps and working with your veterinarian, you can help your pet maintain their health and well-being while future bladder problems.
If you have any concerns or need guidance, consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
