What is the noted characteristic of the bladder during a physical examination?

The bladder, during a physical examination, is typically noted to have a regular shape when it is healthy and functioning normally. This regularity occurs because the bladder is a muscular sac that expands and contracts as it fills with urine and empties. A well-distended bladder will have a smooth, uniform contour when palpated through the abdominal wall, and any deviations from this normal appearance may indicate an underlying issue.

A regular shape indicates that the bladder is not experiencing any pathological enlargement, severe distension, or significant abnormalities which would present as irregularity. Moreover, in healthy dogs, the bladder can often be palpated easily when it is filled, providing a clear outline and confirming its proper function and normal anatomical positioning within the abdominal cavity.

In contrast, characteristics such as irregular shape may suggest the presence of a mass or other abnormalities, while an enlarged and painful bladder could indicate conditions such as cystitis or obstruction. A small and non-visible bladder might indicate emptying or bladder hypoactivity, which could also signify underlying health issues. Hence, understanding that a regular-shaped bladder is indicative of normal bladder health is crucial in clinical assessments.