Bladder Stones
Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian
Understanding Bladder Stones in Dogs
Bladder stones, also known as urinary calculi or uroliths, are mineralized masses that form in the urinary bladder of dogs. These stones can vary in size, ranging from small, gravel-like particles to larger, more solid structures. They are composed of minerals and other substances that are normally present in urine, such as calcium, oxalate, struvite, or urate. These stones develop when there is an imbalance in the concentration of minerals or an abnormality in the urine composition.
The story of Cane
When a dog suddenly can't urinate, it's truly a scary emergency. Cane’s owner witnessed that firsthand when, during his morning walk, he strained and strained to urinate. He could only produce a few drops and his owner knew something was extremely wrong. After being rushed to the local emergency veterinary hospital, it was determined that Cane’s bladder was very large and unable to be emptied. Radiographs revealed multiple bladder stones, with some extending into and obstructing his urethra. Cane was sedated and a urinary catheter was used to push the stones back into his bladder and maintain the patency (openness) of his urethra. Luckily, he was able to have surgery the next day for a procedure called a cystotomy - where the stones are surgically removed from the bladder. Cane made a full recovery and was placed on a prescription diet to help prevent stone formation in the future.
Causes of Bladder Stones: Uncovering Triggers
- Diet: Certain diets that are high in minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium, can contribute to stone formation. Additionally, the pH level of a dog’s urine can be affected by their diet, which can promote the formation of specific types of stones.
- Breed predisposition: Some dog breeds are more prone to developing bladder stones.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary tract can create an environment conducive to stone formation. Bacterial infections can cause changes in urine composition, leading to the precipitation of minerals and the formation of stones.
- Urinary tract abnormalities: Certain structural abnormalities or malfunctions in the urinary tract can contribute to the formation of bladder stones.
- Reduced water intake: Dogs that don’t drink enough water may have more concentrated urine, which can increase the chances of stone formation. Diluted urine helps to prevent the minerals from precipitating and forming stones.
- Medications: Some medications can alter the urine composition, making it more prone to stone formation.
Recognizing Bladder Stones: Signs and Symptoms
- Difficulty urinating: Dogs may strain to urinate or have difficulty starting and stopping the flow of urine, with signs of discomfort and pain.
- Frequent urination: As a result of irritation in the bladder or partial blockage of the urethra.
- Blood in the urine: Bladder stones can irritate the bladder lining, leading to blood in the urine. The urine may appear pink, red, or brownish.
- Urinary accidents: Dogs with bladder stones may have accidents indoors, as they may not be able to control their bladder properly.
- Straining or discomfort: Dogs may show signs of discomfort or pain in the abdominal area. They may exhibit restlessness, pacing, or frequent squatting without producing much urine.
- Licking or biting the genital area
- Loss of appetite: Due to the discomfort and pain they may be feeling.
Bladder Stones Diagnosis: How it's Identified
The veterinarian will start with a thorough physical examination, including palpation of the abdomen to check for any abnormalities or signs of discomfort. Then, a urine sample will be collected to help evaluate the urine’s pH levels, specific gravity, and the presence of blood, crystals, or bacteria. Imaging techniques are helpful too – X-rays help identify the size, location, and number of bladder stones. Not all bladder stones are apparent on X-rays. Ultrasound will provide a detailed view of the bladder, allowing the vet to visualize bladder stones that may not be detectable on X-rays. Blood tests will be performed in order to assess the dog’s overall health and kidney function.
Treating Bladder Stones: Options and Approaches
Treatment options for bladder stones in dogs typically depend on the size, location, and composition of the stones. Initial care should be tailored to the specific problem that caused the stones to form in the first place – antibiotics if the source is an infection, medication if it’s a lack of minerals, and surgery if the cause is birth defects. Following that, here are some common treatment options:
- Non-surgical Management: if the stones are small and can be dissolved, your vet may recommend a special prescription diet that helps dissolve certain types of bladder stones.
- Surgical Removal: If the stones are too large to dissolve or are causing severe symptoms, surgical removal is often necessary. There are different surgical techniques available, including:
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- Cystotomy – This is the most common procedure, where the veterinarian makes an incision into the bladder to remove the stones.
- Laser Lithotripsy – to break up the stones into smaller fragments that can then be flushed out or removed via cystoscopy.
- Cystoscopy – involves inserting a small camera into the bladder to visualize and remove the stones.
- Urohydropropulsion – a procedure where the bladder is filled with a sterile fluid, and pressure is applied to push the stones out.
Bladder Stones: Surprising Facts
Male dogs tend to be more susceptible to bladder stone formation compared to females, possibly due to their longer and narrower urethra.
According to a study published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice, the average age of dogs diagnosed with bladder stones was around 6.9 years.
Another study reported that the recurrence rate of bladder stones in dogs within two years of surgical removal was approximately 10%.
Vet's Tip: Dealing with Bladder Stones
Encouraging your dog to drink more water can help dilute urine and flush out minerals that contribute to stone formation. You can try providing fresh, clean water at all times and consider using a pet fountain or adding water to your dog’s food to increase moisture intake.
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Latest in Research and Treatments
Invasive surgery has been the recommended treatment for removing bladder stones in dogs. Now, patients at The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) will have another treatment option: a recently acquired laser lithotripsy device is currently being used in female dogs and cats. With lithotripsy, a laser fiber is passed through a cystoscope; then, with a push of a button, energy is transmitted that will disintegrate or fragment the stone. The fragments can then be removed or left to pass through the urinary system on their own. The procedure, depending on the size of the stone, may take from 30 to 90 minutes.
Breeds Prone to Bladder Stones
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