Retrospective analysis of diagnoses and outcomes of 45 cats with micturition disorders presenting as urinary incontinence

Abstract

Background: In contrast to dogs, the causes and outcomes of urinary incontinence (UI) in cats are largely unknown. Objectives: To determine the causes, identify comorbid conditions, and assess outcomes of cats with micturition disorders presenting as UI. Animals: Forty-five cats with UI. Methods: Retrospective study. Medical records of cats presented from January 2006 to December 2017 were searched using 45 keywords related to UI. History, presenting complaint, and physical examination findings were used to confirm a diagnosis. Cases were categorized based on functional and anatomic localizations. Results: Forty-five cats met inclusion criteria. Spinal cord disease was the most common cause of UI (n = 18), followed by urethral (n = 17), bladder (n = 9), and ureteral (n = 1) disorders. Proportions of voiding and storage phase disorders were similar (53% and 47%, respectively). However, voiding-phase disorders were observed more frequently in males and younger-aged cats (P