What Is an Ectopic Ureter?
The ureters are two thin tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. With an ectopic ureter, one or both tubes connect to the wrong place, usually the urethra or vagina, so urine flows past the bladder’s control muscle. The result is a pet that leaks urine all the time, even though it may also pee normally.
Classic picture
A young female puppy that is constantly damp around the back end and never seems to finish potty training, despite doing everything right.
Breeds at Risk
- Siberian Huskies, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands
- West Highland White Terriers, Fox Terriers, Miniature and Toy Poodles
- Females are diagnosed far more often than males
- Rare in cats, but it does occur
Signs to Watch For
- Constant or intermittent dribbling of urine since puppyhood
- Wet bedding and urine-stained fur on the belly or legs
- Red, scalded skin around the vulva from urine contact
- Frequent licking of the genital area
- Repeated urinary tract infections; see dog UTI symptoms
Diagnosis
Vets start with a urine test and culture to check for infection. Ultrasound can show widened ureters or kidney changes. The most accurate tests are a CT scan with contrast dye or cystoscopy, where a small camera is passed into the urethra and bladder to see exactly where each ureter opens. Many pets also have other urinary tract defects, so the whole system is checked.
Treatment
- Laser ablation: during cystoscopy, a laser cuts the wall of the misplaced ureter so it opens into the bladder; it is minimally invasive and often done as a day procedure
- Open surgery: re-routing the ureter into the bladder when laser repair is not possible
- Kidney removal: rarely, if the kidney on that side is badly damaged and the other kidney works well
- Medication afterward: some dogs still leak a little and benefit from drugs that tighten the urethra
Outlook
Many dogs become fully continent after repair, and others improve greatly with added medication. Treating it early also lowers the risk of kidney infections.
Related Conditions
Ectopic ureter is one of several causes of leaking urine; see urinary incontinence in dogs for others. Because it is present from birth, check how your policy treats it under congenital condition coverage in pet insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a puppy outgrow an ectopic ureter?
No. The leaking may lessen slightly as the bladder grows, but the defect itself needs treatment.
Is ectopic ureter painful?
The defect is not painful, but urine scald and repeated infections can be uncomfortable.
Should affected dogs be bred?
No. The condition is thought to be inherited, so affected dogs should not be bred.
If your young dog is always damp or leaking urine, book a vet visit. Find a veterinary clinic near you for an exam.