87.88% survey participants checked the inability to urinate as an emergency. What did you check?
What can cause the inability to urinate? The causes break down into two groups. One of them is urinary tract obstruction, either due to a blockage, inflammation or compression of the urethra. The problem behind this can be
- urinary tract stones
- tumors
- urinary disease
- prostate disease in male dogs ...
The other category involves what is referred to as functional urinary retention, caused by a dysfunction, rather than an obstruction. This can be neurologic or systemic in nature.
A dog unable to empty their bladder is an emergency.
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| Balloon pop from overinflation. Image Science Amino |
Urine buildup can lead to kidney failure, electrolyte issues or bladder rupture. All of these things can be fatal.
Note: "A dog straining to urinate might actually look like a conctipated dog, hunching over while urinating." ~petmd
Signs to watch for, other than difficulty urinating, include distended bladder, weak urine stream, urine leakage, blood in urine, loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and pain.
Related articles:
Dog Medical Emergencies Survey
Dog Medical Emergencies Survey Results
Is Unproductive Retching an Emergency?
Is Difficulty Breathing an Emergency?
Is Panting an Emergency?
Is Severe Pain an Emergency?
Is Limping an Emergency?
Is Vomiting Bile in the Morning an Emergency?
Is Profuse Vomiting an Emergency?
Are Convulsions or Seizures an Emergency?
Is Loss of Appetite an Emergency?
Is Reduced Activity an Emergency?
Is Severe Lethargy an Emergency?
Is Inability to Stand an Emergency?
