Ectopic Ureters

What is it?

Ureters are the two small tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. With ectopic ureters, one or both empty into the urethra or vagina instead of the normal spot in the bladder, so urine bypasses the bladder's control. It develops before birth and is thought to be inherited in some breeds; the link is strongest in Entlebucher mountain dogs, and Labrador and golden retrievers, poodles, Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, West Highland white terriers, soft-coated wheaten terriers, and other terriers are also at higher risk. Females are affected far more often than males.

What signs should I watch for?

The main sign is urinary incontinence, or dribbling urine, in a young female dog, often noticed soon after weaning, though some dogs show signs only as adults. Leaking may be constant or come and go. Watch also for frequent licking of the genital area, urine-stained fur, and repeated urinary tract infections, with frequent small urinations, straining, or discomfort.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Urinalysis and urine culture check for infection, which is common, while X-rays and ultrasound rule out bladder stones and other problems. In females, cystoscopy (a small camera passed into the urethra and bladder) gives a definitive diagnosis and sometimes allows treatment at the same time; in males, a CT scan is most accurate. Treatment relocates the ureter, either with open surgery or with a laser during cystoscopy. If leaking continues afterward, medication such as phenylpropanolamine may help.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• Because it is a birth defect, it cannot be prevented.
• After repair, about 50 to 75% of dogs no longer have incontinence, and continued leaking is the most common complication.