A urinary catheter is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder through the urethra. This procedure allows for the temporary drainage of urine or the introduction of substances directly into the bladder. It is a common veterinary practice, used for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in female dogs. The placement requires precision due to anatomical variations among individual patients.
Why a Catheter is Needed
Veterinarians use urinary catheters for diagnostic purposes, such as collecting sterile urine samples directly from the bladder. These samples are analyzed for conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) through urinalysis and culture, providing accurate results without external contamination. Catheters are also used for advanced diagnostic imaging, including contrast radiography of the urinary tract to identify structural abnormalities.
Beyond diagnostics, catheters serve several therapeutic functions in female dogs. They relieve urinary obstruction, though this is less common in females than males. For bladder stones or debris, a catheter allows for flushing to remove these materials. Medications can also be administered directly into the bladder through the catheter, ensuring localized treatment for certain conditions.
For critically ill patients, urine output is monitored by connecting the catheter to a sterile collection system, which assesses kidney function and hydration status. Catheters are also placed post-surgically to facilitate drainage after bladder operations, such as those to remove stones or tumors, aiding healing and preventing urine accumulation.
Understanding the Placement Procedure
Placing a urinary catheter in a female dog requires sedation or general anesthesia for patient comfort and safety. This relaxation allows for smooth catheter insertion into the urethra. The dog may be positioned in sternal recumbency, with hind limbs extended over the table, or in lateral recumbency, depending on the veterinarian’s preference and the patient’s condition.
A sterile environment and aseptic technique are maintained throughout the procedure to prevent infection. This involves clipping hair around the vulva and thoroughly cleansing the area with an antiseptic solution, such as diluted chlorhexidine. Sterile gloves, lubricant, and the appropriately sized catheter are prepared before insertion.
The steps involve identifying the urethral opening, often located on the ventral vestibule wall, and gently advancing the lubricated catheter into the bladder. In female dogs, this is achieved by digital palpation, where a gloved finger guides the catheter, or through direct visualization using a speculum or otoscope. Once the catheter reaches the bladder, urine flow confirms proper placement. For indwelling catheters, a balloon may be inflated to secure it at the bladder neck.
Caring for Your Dog with a Catheter
Maintaining hygiene around the catheter exit site is important to prevent urinary tract infections. The perineum and perivulvar area should be cleaned at least daily, and potentially more frequently if soiled, using gentle soap and water or cleansing wipes. The external portion of the catheter tubing should also be wiped with a dilute antiseptic solution, such as 0.5% to 2% chlorhexidine, up to three times a day.
Monitoring urine output involves observing the collection bag for urine volume, color, and clarity. The collection system should be kept below the dog’s bladder level for drainage and checked for disconnections, leaks, or obstructions. Any significant changes in urine appearance or flow should be reported to the veterinary team.
Preventing the dog from dislodging or chewing the catheter is important. An Elizabethan collar (E-collar) is recommended to prevent the dog from accessing the catheter. Close supervision is also needed, and the catheter can be secured to the dog’s tail or flank with tape or sutures to minimize movement and accidental removal.
Activity restrictions are advised to prevent dislodgement or injury while the catheter is in place. Limiting vigorous play, jumping, or excessive movement helps keep the catheter secure. Owners should also watch for signs of discomfort, such as straining to urinate, excessive licking, or vocalizing pain, which may indicate irritation or a complication.
Veterinary rechecks assess the catheter’s function and the dog’s overall condition. The duration a catheter remains in place varies, but indwelling catheters are not left for more than 72 consecutive hours to minimize infection risk. Once the catheter is removed, continued monitoring for normal urination and any signs of discomfort is advised.
Recognizing Potential Issues
Despite careful placement and maintenance, issues can arise with urinary catheters. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complication, indicated by signs such as fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, or changes in urine appearance like cloudiness or blood. After catheter removal, increased urination frequency or inappropriate urination may also suggest an infection.
Catheter dislodgement or obstruction can occur if the dog pulls on the catheter or if debris blocks the tube. Signs include a sudden stop in urine flow into the collection bag, the catheter appearing partially or completely out of the urethra, or the dog showing discomfort or straining without producing urine.
Urethral trauma or irritation can happen during placement or while the catheter is indwelling. Owners may observe pain, swelling, or bleeding around the urethral opening. Mild irritation is common, but persistent or severe signs warrant immediate veterinary attention.
Temporary or persistent urinary incontinence may be observed after catheter removal. This can manifest as involuntary urine leakage, especially when the dog is relaxed or sleeping. While sometimes self-resolving, prolonged incontinence should be discussed with a veterinarian. An allergic reaction to the catheter material is also possible, presenting as localized redness, swelling, or itching. Any of these signs should prompt immediate contact with a veterinarian for assessment and appropriate intervention.