Bladder stones in dogs and cats
There are times when minerals that are usual in dogs and cats urine clump together to form stones, also called urinary calculi or bladder stones. The cause for formation of these stones is contributed by the pH of the urine, which is influenced by infection, diet and some medication. Genetics also play a role especially in some dogs physiological processes tend to produce precursors for stone formation than in other dogs. These stones can be anywhere between the kidneys, ureter, bladder and urethra.
The symptoms of bladder stones vary from blood in the urine, constant licking of the genitals, inability to urinate, Straining to urinate, and increased frequency of urination, abdominal pain, vomiting and death.
Diagnosis involves physical examination after obtaining proper history of the pet from the owner, x-rays, urine analysis that will determine infection, type of the crystal and the urine pH.
Treatment involves medical management or surgery depending on the location and type of the stones.
Prevention of bladder stones involve increasing consumption of water for your pet by placing multiple bowls of water in the garden and dietary changes through advise from your veterinary doctor, which will depend on the type of bladder stone your pet is having. If your pet has regular bladders stones, it is important to have regular examinations by your vet to ensure that they are not forming again.
