Out-of-Place Urethral Lining in Dogs

Out-of-place urethral lining in dogs, commonly known as urethral prolapse, is a rare condition in male canines. This prolapse of the urethral mucosa is a rare condition that occurs mainly in younger male dogs.  This condition occurs when the urethra, which is the narrow tube in which urine is passed through, has weakened tissue. This tissue normally and effectively keeps the urethra in its place, but when it becomes weakened, prolapse occurs.

The urethra of the dog is comprised of a lining, called the mucosal lining. This is the lining of the inside of the urethra, or the canal that allows urine to flow freely out of the bladder. In some cases, the urethral lining may shift or move to the other side of the urethra, and in other cases, the penile opening. This will cause the lining to become visible. When this occurs other parts of the body become affected, such as the reproductive organs, the urinary tract, and even the immune system.

Out-of-place urethral lining in dogs, known as urethral prolapse, occurs in male dogs, typically those of young age. This painful condition is a result of the lining of the urethra dropping down through the opening of the penis.

There are many symptoms of this disorder, and they are quite noticeable. If you notice any of the following signs of urethral prolapse, it is important to make an appointment with your veterinarian. Symptoms include:

• Straining or difficulty urinating
• Licking the genital area, or penis
• Penile irritation
• Reddish tissue or mass coming out of the penis
• Blood coming out of urethra
• Urine containing blood
• Excessive urination
• Blockage of urethra

Types

Urethral prolapse occurs in specific dog breeds more so than others. Types of dog breeds and specifications of canines include: 

• English Bulldogs
• Boston Terriers
• Young to middle-aged dogs
• Male dogs
• Mixed breeds that have a broad, shortened skull

Out-of-place urethral lining in dogs can be quite an irritating and painful condition. Causes can include:

• More pressure than normal in the abdomen area
• Sexual excitement that is often and prolonged
• Infection of the urethra
• Urinary stones

When diagnosing urethral prolapse, the veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, including blood work, urinalysis, biochemistry profile, and a rectal examination to check for any mass or growth. The medical professional will also examine and look for any urogenital abnormalities and disorders. He will ask questions about any of the dog’s symptoms, specifically in the genital area.

Dogs in which the veterinarians suspect of having urethral prolapse will be thoroughly examined for any other disorders, such as a urinary tract infection. Radiographs and ultrasonography of the abdomen will check the kidney function, bladder, and prostate. If there is a prolapsed mucosa, it will generally be bright in color, either red or purple. There are differential diagnoses of venereal tumors, trauma to the penis, and neoplasia (abnormal tissue growth or tumor).

There is one mode of successful treatment for this condition. In terms of treatment, the veterinarian will perform surgery to remove the urethra that is prolapsed. The sutures are placed on the edges of the urethra to allow for the opening to stay closed.  Antibiotics will be given after the surgery to prevent infection.

Prognosis is very good. It can recur, though, and the veterinarian may recommend neutering your dog if he feels prolonged sexual excitement it is somehow causing the condition. If surgery does occur, the healing from the procedure is very good. It will be important to follow any post-operative instructions given to you by the veterinarian. It is also important to give all necessary medications that the veterinarian prescribed. Also, after surgery, the dog will need to wear a “cone” to prevent him from licking any of the genital area.