Bladder stones are hard accumulations of minerals that form in the dog’s urinary bladder, potentially blocking the flow of urine and causing an array of complications.
Dog Bladder Stones
Understanding the complexities of bladder stones in dogs is crucial for early detection and effective management. In consultation with the Petstock Vet team, we’ve provided a detailed look into the symptoms, causes, and types of bladder stones that can affect your dog.
Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Dogs
The symptoms exhibited by dogs with bladder stones can vary widely depending on the size, number, and location of the stones. Common signs include:
• Frequent urination, often in small amounts.
• Difficulty urinating, which may be painful or seem strained.
• Bloody or cloudy urine due to irritation of the bladder walls.
• Lethargy or reluctance to move due to discomfort (particularly in the lower abdomen).
• Urinary accidents, which are uncharacteristic for the trained pet.
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, a veterinary consultation is essential as these signs can also indicate other serious conditions.
What Causes Bladder Stones in Dogs
Bladder stones can develop for a variety of reasons, but typically they form when the urine becomes overly concentrated with minerals that crystallise. The main contributing factors include:
• Dietary influences: Certain dog foods high in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus can predispose dogs to stone formation.
• Urinary pH: An alkaline urine pH can promote the formation of struvite stones, while an acidic environment can lead to calcium oxalate stones.
• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can lead to more concentrated urine, which encourages the formation of stones.
• Genetics: Some breeds are predisposed to developing certain types of stones.
• Underlying medical conditions: Issues like chronic urinary tract infections can alter the chemical balance of urine and lead to stone formation.
Risk Factors for Bladder Stones in Dogs
While there can be a variety of causes for bladder stones, certain traits can increase the chances of your dog developing bladder stones.
• Certain breeds are more susceptible to bladder stones. These include Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos, Yorkshire Terriers, Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus, Miniature and Toy Poodles, Dalmatians, and Cocker Spaniels.
• Old age.
• Poor physical condition (particularly in the case of overweight pets).
• Pets that are not drinking enough water (the urine becomes too concentrated).
• Inactive pets that don’t urinate often enough (the urine settles in the bladder).
Types of Bladder Stones in Dogs
There are several types of bladder stones that can develop in dogs, each composed of different mineral combinations:
Cystine Bladder Stones in Dogs
These relatively rare stones are typically seen in certain breeds due to genetic factors that affect how cystine is absorbed and excreted by the kidneys.
Calcium Oxalate Bladder Stones in Dogs
These are among the most common types of bladder stones in dogs, especially in older dogs. The formation is often related to the dog's diet, metabolism, or long-term use of certain medications.
Struvite Bladder Stones in Dogs
Struvite stones are typically associated with bacterial infections of the urinary tract. They can grow quite large and may occur with little to no warning signs.
Homemade Dog Food for Struvite Bladder Stones
A diet tailored for managing struvite stones in dogs typically involves controlled levels of protein and certain minerals to help reduce stone formation. Ingredients might include high-quality proteins, non-legume sources of carbohydrates, and vegetables that help maintain a neutral to slightly acidic urine pH.
Ammonium Urate Bladder Stones in Dogs
Ammonium urate bladder stones are often found in dogs that have a genetic predisposition to them, such as Dalmatians and English Bulldogs. These stones form due to a combination of genetic factors that affect the metabolism and excretion of uric acid, a byproduct of protein metabolism. In breeds predisposed to this condition, the uric acid is less soluble, leading to the formation of ammonium urate stones.
Silica Bladder Stones in Dogs
Silica bladder stones are less common and are primarily formed due to diets high in silica or silicates. These can be found in some ingredients used in dog foods, such as beet pulp, some grains, and certain types of fillers. Dogs that consume large amounts of these components are at a higher risk of developing silica stones.
Bladder Stones in Dogs Treatment
Treatment for bladder stones in dogs depends largely on the type, size, and location of the stones, as well as the overall health of the dog. Common treatment options often include.
Vet Diagnosis
Before treatment can begin, an accurate diagnosis is essential. This usually involves:
• Physical Examination: The vet will check for signs of pain or discomfort.
• Urinalysis: To check for crystals, bacteria, blood, and other abnormalities in the urine.
• X-rays or Ultrasound: These imaging tests help to visualise the stones and assess their number, size, and location.
Diet for Dogs with Bladder Stones
For certain types of stones, dietary changes can be an effective treatment:
• Struvite Stones: These are often treated with a special diet that acidifies the urine and promotes dissolution of the stones. This diet is usually coupled with antibiotics if a bacterial infection is also present.
• Urate Stones: Dogs with urate stones may benefit from a low-purine diet and increased water intake to help dissolve the stones.
• Calcium Oxalate Stones: While these stones cannot be dissolved by diet, feeding a diet low in calcium and oxalate can help prevent new stone formation.
Dog Bladder Stones Surgery
In many cases, particularly where stones are large or causing obstruction, surgical removal might be necessary:
• Cystotomy: This is a surgical procedure where the vet opens the bladder to remove the stones. This is the most common surgery for bladder stone removal.
• Urethrostomy: For male dogs that frequently develop urethral blockages, this surgery may be performed to create a new urinary opening to prevent future blockages.
Bladder Stones in Dogs Surgery Cost
Surgical removal is often required for large stones or stones that cause obstruction. The cost can vary widely depending on the procedure's complexity and the need for postoperative care.
Dog Bladder Stones Home Remedy
For dogs that are not good candidates for surgery due to other health concerns, or in cases where the stones might be treatable through dietary means, non-surgical management may be recommended. This includes maintaining a special diet, increasing fluid intake to help flush out smaller stones, and regular monitoring through imaging.
While some mild cases can be managed with dietary changes and increased fluid, always consult with a veterinarian before starting any home treatment.
Preventing Bladder Stones in Dogs
Preventing bladder stones in dogs involves a combination of diet management, adequate hydration, and regular veterinary check-ups. Understanding the specific type of stone your dog is prone to forming is critical to choosing the right preventative measures.
Effective treatment and management of bladder stones require a multifaceted approach that addresses both the immediate health concerns and long-term care to prevent recurrence. Always follow your vet's recommendations to ensure the best outcome for your dog.
Bladder Stones in Dogs Surgery Cost
Surgical removal is often required for large stones or stones that cause obstruction. The cost can vary widely depending on the procedure's complexity and the need for postoperative care.
Petstock Vet in Action
When Penny, a 10-year-old Pomeranian cross, visited Petstock Vet Carrum Downs it was suspected that something was wrong with her leg. Dr Albert decided to x-ray Penny’s leg to check for signs of cruciate ligament damage and happened to notice another problem brewing…Penny had several large stones in her bladder.
Initially her owner hadn't noticed any symptoms for bladder stones, but when Dr Albert discussed it further, he agreed that Penny had been urinating more often than usual. Luckily, Penny did not have any blood in her urine and did not seem to be in any pain or discomfort. Penny had the stones surgically removed and made a full recovery. She is now on a special Urinary diet to help prevent the stones from reforming and she'll need to have regular urine tests every six months to check that the crystals are not forming again. Penny’s leg is also doing much better!
FAQs for Bladder Stones in Dogs
What Dissolves Bladder Stones in Dogs?
The dissolution of bladder stones depends on their type. Struvite stones, for instance, can often be dissolved with dietary changes and antibiotics if caused by an infection.
What Food Causes Bladder Stones in Dogs?
Diets high in certain minerals and proteins can lead to the formation of different types of stones. Foods that are high in oxalates, such as spinach, beets, and nuts, should be avoided in dogs prone to calcium oxalate stones.
What Treats Can I Give My Dog with Bladder Stones?
Choose treats that are specifically formulated to be low in protein, magnesium, and phosphates, which are common in many commercial dog treats. These should be used sparingly to avoid exacerbating the condition.