Prolapse of the Urinary Bladder in Animals

Prolapse of the urinary bladder in animals typically occurs during or after parturition, especially in larger domestic species like cows and mares.

It usually results from a rupture or tear in the floor of the vagina, allowing the bladder to protrude through the vulva. The prolapsed bladder often becomes distended with urine due to the sharp bend in the urethra, which obstructs normal flow.

It occur in all species. but most commonly in the larger domestic animals before or after parturition. Usually takes place through a rupture or tear in the floor of the vagina and the bladder is noticed hanging from the vulvar orifice after parturition.

Due to the sharp bend in the urethra the prolapsed organ fills with urine.

Differentials

• Eversion of the bladder through the urethra
• Vaginal or vulvar tumors
• Cysts
• A mass of fat protruding through a rupture in the floor of the vagina
• Vaginal or vulvar hematomas

Treatment

• If the bladder is distended with urine it may be replaced and the urine forced out or it may be drained with a needle before replacing.
• The external surface of the bladder should be carefully cleaned, dusted with a sulfonamide or with an antibiotic solution, and the organ replaced.
• The rupture in the vaginal floor permitting the prolapse should be sutured.