FieldDxRupture of the BladderClinical signs, differential diagnosis, treatment and prevention in horses.
Overview
Urine leaking into the abdominal cavity from a torn or ruptured urinary tract. Trauma, or obstruction (e.g. a urolith) causing pressure buildup and rupture of the bladder or urethra.
Clinical signs
- Foals usually look normal at birth, then decline over about 24-72 hours after rupture.
- Lethargy, fast heart rate and fast breathing as it progresses.
- A distended abdomen, sometimes with a fluid wave on ballottement.
- Frequent urination attempts and straining with only small volumes of urine; the straining can be mistaken for straining to defecate, as with meconium impaction.
Predisposing factors
- The epidemiology of uroperitoneum is not well documented. The incidence in foals appears to be approximately 0.2%, although this estimate is based on a study conducted 50 years ago.
Treatment
Definitive treatment of uroperitoneum in foals is surgical repair of the defect. However, there is no need for surgery on an emergency basis.
Prevention
1. Recumbent foals are at high risk and may need prophylactic indwelling catheterisation to reduce the risk of rupture. 2. Risk factors listed include prematurity, prolonged recumbency, sepsis and cystitis.
Source
A Textbook of the Diseases of Cattle, Horses, Sheep, Pigs and Goat by ELSEVIER — Uroperitoneum In Foals
MSD Veterinary Manual — Uroperitoneum in Animals (accessed 2026-08-11)
MSD Veterinary Manual — Uroperitoneum in Foals (accessed 2026-10-29)
Condensed and attributed, never reproduced whole. Open the full entry in the app.