Incidence and Signalment Ruptured urinary bladder is the most common bladder disorder in neonatal foals. It occurs most often in colts less than 1 week of age, but can also occur in fillies and older foals. There is no known breed predilection. Etiology Typically, bladder rupture occurs at the time of parturition. A full bladder passing through the narrow pelvic inlet of the mare can burst simply from the pressure of delivery.
Colts are over-represented due to their longer, narrower urethras.
However, the condition can also be caused by any type of trauma such as kicks or rough handling. Congenital defects of the bladder have also been reported. Finally, bladder rupture can occur secondary to septic omphalitis. The infection may extend to the bladder resulting in necrosis and weakening of the wall, predisposing the bladder to rupture. Physical Examination Early clinical signs are subtle and the foal may appear normal at birth.