Incurin is a prescription medication used to manage hormone-dependent urinary incontinence in female dogs. It contains estriol, a natural form of oestrogen, which helps restore control over bladder function. This medication is specifically designed for spayed female dogs experiencing involuntary urine leakage due to decreased oestrogen levels.
What is Hormone-Dependent Urinary Incontinence?
Hormone-dependent urinary incontinence is a common condition in spayed female dogs, typically occurring as they age. It results from a decline in oestrogen production following spaying. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle tone in the urethral sphincter, which is responsible for preventing urine leakage.
When oestrogen levels drop, the muscles controlling urine retention weaken, leading to involuntary leakage. This condition is also known as urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI). It can cause noticeable symptoms such as small puddles of urine left behind where the dog has been lying down or sleeping. Leakage can be infrequent or more consistent, depending on the severity of the condition.
Although the condition is not painful, it can be distressing for both the dog and the owner. Affected dogs may not realise they are leaking urine, and owners may notice damp bedding or an ammonia-like odour. Without treatment, the condition can lead to skin irritation, infections, and hygiene concerns.
