Senior Pets and Toileting Problems: What Accidents Could Be Telling You
- Dr. Emma Clark
- Sep 15
- 4 min read
Toileting accidents in older pets are distressing for both animals and their owners. A house-trained dog suddenly urinating indoors or a cat missing the litter tray can cause confusion, frustration, and concern. While it’s easy to assume your pet is simply “getting old,” these incidents may point to treatable medical issues or changes that need attention.
In this guide, we explore the common causes of toileting problems in senior pets—including incontinence, constipation, and underlying illnesses—and explain when to seek veterinary advice.
Contents
Common Toileting Changes in Older Pets
Toileting issues in senior pets can appear gradually or seemingly overnight. You might notice wet patches in the bedding, find faeces near the litter box, or observe your dog asking to go out more frequently—or not making it in time. These changes are not always simple signs of ageing.
Typical toileting changes include:
Urinating indoors or in unusual places
Increased frequency of urination or straining to go
Dribbling urine while lying down or sleeping
Constipation or passing hard, dry stools
Soiling shortly after being outside or using the litter tray
These symptoms can affect a pet’s quality of life, lead to hygiene issues, and often indicate a need for medical evaluation.
Incontinence: What It Is and What Causes It
Incontinence is the loss of control over urination and, less commonly, defecation. It often affects older dogs and cats, especially those who have reduced muscle tone, hormonal changes, or nerve dysfunction.
Common causes of urinary incontinence include:
Age-related muscle weakening - especially in the bladder sphincter
Hormonal imbalances - such as oestrogen deficiency in spayed female dogs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) - which can irritate the bladder and cause urgency
Arthritis or mobility issues - making it hard for pets to reach their toileting area in time
Neurological disorders - such as spinal issues or degenerative diseases
Cognitive disease- Loss of training associated with deteriorating brain function
In many cases, incontinence is manageable with medication, lifestyle adjustments, or treatment of the underlying cause.
Constipation and Difficulty Toileting
Constipation can also cause accidents or discomfort in older pets. A constipated animal may strain, pass small hard stools, or even leak faeces without realising. If not resolved, constipation can lead to megacolon in cats—a serious condition where the colon becomes enlarged and unable to function properly.
Common reasons for constipation in senior pets include:
Dehydration or insufficient water intake, especially in pets also suffering from reduced kidney function, diabetes or cognitive dysfunction
Lack of dietary fibre or changes in food
Arthritis or pain when posturing
Neurological conditions affecting bowel control
Medication side effects
Reduced exercise
You may notice your pet crying or pacing before toileting, trying repeatedly without success, or appearing bloated or uncomfortable. These symptoms should not be ignored.
Behavioural vs Medical Causes
Sometimes toileting accidents stem from anxiety, confusion, or environmental factors—particularly in senior pets who may be developing cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia). It’s important to distinguish between behavioural and medical causes to provide the right support.
Signs suggesting behavioural causes:
Soiling occurs shortly after a known stressor (e.g. a loud noise or being left alone)
Accidents are intermittent and not accompanied by other symptoms
Your pet seems otherwise healthy, active, and alert
Signs pointing to medical issues:
Frequent accidents despite a consistent routine
Physical signs like straining, licking genitals, or vocalising
Lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, or appetite changes
Soiling during rest or sleep
Your vet can help identify the root cause through a physical exam, lab tests, and sometimes imaging.
When to Contact Your Vet
You should seek immediate Veterinary advice for any pet straining to pass urine or faeces with little or no success.
Toileting issues are not just a nuisance—they can signal discomfort, pain, or treatable illness. Speak to your vet if:
Accidents begin suddenly or worsen over time
Your pet seems to be straining, in pain, or distressed
There’s blood in the urine or stool
They appear lethargic or unwell
Soiling happens during sleep or rest
Toileting issues coincide with other symptoms like vomiting, confusion, or weight loss
Early diagnosis helps prevent more serious problems and allows you to make thoughtful decisions about your pet’s care and comfort.
FAQs
Is incontinence normal in older pets?
While it is more common in ageing pets, incontinence is not something to be ignored. It often indicates an underlying issue that can be treated or managed with veterinary support.
Why does my senior pet soil during sleep?
This may be due to weakened bladder muscles, nerve issues, or a deep sleep cycle. It's often a sign of incontinence rather than behavioural change and should be assessed by a vet.
Can arthritis cause toileting problems?
Yes. Pets with arthritis may find it painful to squat or climb stairs to get outside, leading to accidents. Providing easy access and pain management can help.
My pet seems confused and is toileting in odd places—is this dementia?
Possibly. Cognitive dysfunction is common in senior pets and can lead to disorientation and loss of housetraining. A vet can assess cognitive health and suggest supportive measures.
What can I do to help manage toileting accidents?
Take your pet out more frequently or provide more litter trays
Use waterproof bedding and puppy pads in common areas
Maintain a consistent routine
Work with your vet to manage pain, infections, or other health issues
Consider medications or supplements for incontinence or anxiety
