Abstract
Objectives
Urinary incontinence is reportedly common in bitches. This study aimed to estimate prevalence and demographic risk factors in bitches under primary veterinary care in England.
Methods
The study population included all bitches within the <REDACTED> database from September 1st, 2009 to July 7th, 2013. Electronic patient records were searched for urinary incontinence cases and additional demographic and clinical information was extracted.
Results
Of 100,397 bitches attending 119 clinics in England, an estimated 3,108 were diagnosed with urinary incontinence. The prevalence of urinary incontinence was 3.14% (95% CI 2.97-3.33). Medical therapy was prescribed to 45.6% cases. Predisposed breeds included the Irish Setter (OR: 8.09, 95% CI 3.15-20.80, P < 0.001) and Dobermann (OR: 7.98, 95% CI 4.38-14.54, P < 0.001). Bitches weighing at or above the mean adult bodyweight for their breed had 1.31 times the odds (95% CI 1.12-1.54, P < 0.001). Increasing adult bodyweight was associated with increasing risk. Bitches aged 9 to < 12 years showed 3.86 (95% CI 2.86-5.20, P < 0.001) times the odds, neutered bitches had 2.23 (95% CI 1.52-3.25, P < 0.001) times the odds and insured bitches had 1.59 (95% CI 1.34-1.88, P < 0.001) times the odds.
Clinical Impact
Urinary incontinence affects just over 3% of bitches overall but affects over 15% of bitches in high risk breeds including the Irish Setter, Dobermann, Bearded Collie, Rough Collie and Dalmatian. These results provide an evidence base for clinicians to enhance clinical recommendations on neutering and weight control, especially in high-risk breeds.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 685-693 |
Journal | Journal of Small Animal Practice |
Volume | 58 |
Issue number | 12 |
Early online date | 7 Sept 2017 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2017 |
Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)
- epidemiology
- urethra
- bladder
- dog