What Are Bladder Stones in Dogs & How Are They Treated 

Bladder stones in dogs are more common than many pet owners realize, and they can cause serious discomfort or even lead to dangerous urinary blockages. If your dog has been straining to urinate or having accidents in the house, these could be signs that something more serious is going on inside their bladder. In this blog, we’ll explain what bladder stones are, why they form, what symptoms to watch for, and how veterinary teams diagnose and treat them. If you’re concerned your dog might have bladder stones, call LePar Animal Hospital in Evergreen Park at (708) 423-3200 or book an appointment online today.

 

 

What are Bladder Stones in Dogs?

Bladder stones in dogs, also known as uroliths or cystic calculi, are rock-like formations of minerals that develop in the bladder. These stones can vary in size and number, from tiny grains of sand to large, pebble-sized stones. Some dogs may have just one, while others could develop multiple stones that fill the bladder. These mineral accumulations irritate the bladder wall and can lead to infection, inflammation, and obstruction.

Bladder stones form when certain minerals in your dog’s urine become too concentrated and start binding together. This often happens due to an imbalance in urinary pH, a urinary tract infection, or an underlying metabolic condition. Different types of bladder stones can form depending on the specific minerals involved, with struvite and calcium oxalate being the most common in dogs.

Why Do Dogs Get Bladder Stones?

There’s no single cause behind bladder stones in dogs. Instead, multiple factors work together to increase the risk. These can include diet, genetics, water intake, and medical history. Understanding what contributes to stone formation can help you take preventive steps with your veterinarian’s guidance.

Diet and Nutrition

Certain diets can affect the pH of your dog’s urine or increase the concentration of minerals like calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus. Dogs who eat an unbalanced diet may be at higher risk for stone development. Even some commercial dog foods, particularly those not designed with urinary health in mind, may contribute to stone formation in sensitive dogs.

Breed and Genetics

Some breeds are more likely to develop bladder stones than others. Breeds commonly affected include Miniature Schnauzers, Dalmatians, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Yorkshire Terriers. These breeds may have inherited metabolic tendencies that increase mineral buildup in the urine.

Infections and Urinary Tract Health

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can alter the chemistry of the bladder, especially in female dogs. Certain bacteria can increase the pH of urine, making it more alkaline and promoting struvite stone formation. Addressing infections promptly is key to preventing stones from forming or recurring.

Water Intake and Hydration

Dogs that don’t drink enough water may have more concentrated urine, which creates an ideal environment for stone formation. Encouraging hydration by providing fresh water at all times and adding wet food to their diet can help dilute minerals in the urine.

Common Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Bladder stones often cause noticeable changes in a dog’s urination habits. In some cases, signs may appear suddenly, while in others, they may develop over time. It’s important to monitor your dog closely and seek veterinary attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Frequent urination or attempts to urinate with little success
• Straining or discomfort while urinating
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Urinating in unusual places or having accidents in the house
• Licking the genital area excessively
• Signs of pain, especially when touched near the abdomen
• Lethargy or loss of appetite in more severe cases

Bladder stones can partially or completely block the flow of urine, especially in male dogs. A complete blockage is a medical emergency and requires immediate care. If your dog cannot urinate at all or seems in distress, contact LePar Animal Hospital right away at (708) 423-3200.

How Bladder Stones in Dogs Are Diagnosed

Diagnosing bladder stones typically starts with a physical exam and a detailed review of your dog’s symptoms and history. From there, your veterinarian will use diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of stones and assess their size, location, and potential impact.

Urinalysis

A urinalysis allows your veterinarian to look for blood, crystals, infection, and changes in pH. While this test alone doesn’t confirm the presence of stones, it can indicate if the bladder environment supports stone formation.

X-rays and Ultrasound

Imaging is the most effective way to detect bladder stones. X-rays can reveal stones made of certain minerals like calcium oxalate, while ultrasound may help identify stones that don’t appear on X-rays. These tools also help determine the size and number of stones, which is critical for treatment planning.

Culture and Sensitivity Testing

If a urinary tract infection is suspected, your veterinarian may recommend a urine culture. This helps identify the type of bacteria present and determine which antibiotics are most effective.

Treatment Approaches for Bladder Stones in Dogs

The best treatment for bladder stones depends on the type of stone, the severity of symptoms, and whether your dog’s condition is urgent. Treatment goals typically include removing the stones, preventing recurrence, and managing any underlying infections or metabolic issues.

Prescription Diets

In some cases, bladder stones, especially struvite stones, can be dissolved with a specially formulated prescription diet. These diets work by altering the urine pH and reducing the concentration of minerals that contribute to stone formation. Dietary dissolution can take several weeks and is closely monitored by your veterinarian.

Surgical Removal (Cystotomy)

When stones are too large to dissolve or are causing a blockage, surgical removal may be necessary. A cystotomy is a procedure where your veterinarian makes a small incision into the bladder to remove the stones directly. This method provides fast relief and allows for the stones to be analyzed for future prevention.

Non-Surgical Options

In select cases, small bladder stones may be flushed out through a procedure called urohydropropulsion. This technique is typically used in smaller dogs with very small stones and is performed under sedation or anesthesia.

Long-Term Management and Prevention

After treatment, preventing new bladder stones in dogs becomes the focus. Your veterinarian will recommend a tailored plan based on the stone type and your dog’s health history. Prevention often involves a combination of dietary changes, regular monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments.

• Ongoing Diet and Nutrition: Dogs that are prone to bladder stones often need a long-term prescription diet. Feeding table scraps or other commercial foods can interfere with the balance these diets provide, so it’s important to follow feeding instructions carefully.
• Regular Checkups and Urinalysis: Routine checkups allow your veterinary team to monitor your dog’s urinary health and detect changes early. Your vet may suggest regular urinalysis or imaging to check for new stone development, especially in dogs with a history of recurrence.
• Hydration and Bathroom Access: Make sure your dog always has access to clean water and gets frequent opportunities to urinate. Dogs who hold their urine for too long may be more likely to form stones due to concentrated mineral buildup.

Signs It’s Time to Contact Your Veterinarian

If your dog shows any signs of discomfort while urinating, has blood in their urine, or seems unable to pass urine, reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. These symptoms may point to bladder stones in dogs or another issue that requires urgent care. At LePar Animal Hospital in Evergreen Park, our team can help you navigate the diagnostic and treatment process with compassion and care. To schedule an appointment or ask a question, call us at (708) 423-3200 or book online.