How to Prevent and Manage Bladder Stones in Dogs

Welcome to the Vital Pet Life Podcast, a dedicated space for discussing pet nutrition and wellness. Hosted by Donie, our Chief Treat Lady, and Dr. Amber, the official veterinarian at Vital Pet Life, this podcast aims to provide valuable insights to help fur babies live longer, more vibrant, and happier lives. In this episode, the focus is on bladder stones in dogs, with Donie sharing her recent experience with her dog, Tuxedo.

Donie and Dr. Amber discuss canine bladder stones, highlighting the challenges and solutions to this common health issue. Donie recounts her experience with Tuxedo, who had recurring bladder stones, and Dr. Amber provides expert advice on managing and preventing this condition. They discuss symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of hydration in preventing bladder stones.

Tuxedo’s Experience with Bladder Stones 

Donie shares the story of Tuxedo, her dog, who has been dealing with bladder stones. After having bladder stones removed last year, Tuxedo developed new stones early this year. Donie recounts the stressful week when Tuxedo exhibited symptoms like frequent urination, accidents in the house, and eventually bleeding. Upon rushing him to the vet, they discovered that Tuxedo had passed the stones naturally, much to their relief.

Understanding Bladder Stones

Bladder stones develop when minerals in the urine crystallize and aggregate into solid masses. This process is influenced by various factors, including the concentration of minerals in the urine, urine pH, and the presence of other substances that can either promote or inhibit crystal formation. Several bladder stones can affect dogs with distinct causes and treatment approaches.

Types of Bladder Stones

1. Struvite Stones

• Causes: Struvite stones, also known as magnesium ammonium phosphate stones, are commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). The bacteria responsible for UTIs can produce an enzyme called urease, which increases the urine's pH and forms struvite crystals. These stones are more prevalent in female dogs due to their higher susceptibility to UTIs.
• Symptoms: Dogs with struvite stones may exhibit frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and discomfort or pain during urination.
• Treatment: Struvite stones can often be dissolved through dietary management. A diet formulated to acidify the urine and reduce the minerals contributing to struvite formation can help dissolve the stones over time. Antibiotics are also used to treat the underlying UTI, if present. In severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary.

2. Calcium Oxalate Stones

• Causes: Calcium oxalate stones are not typically associated with infections, unlike struvite stones. These stones form when there is an excess of calcium and oxalate in the urine, which can crystallize and aggregate. Factors such as diet, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation.
• Symptoms: Dogs with calcium oxalate stones may show signs similar to those with struvite stones, including frequent urination, straining, blood in the urine, and abdominal discomfort.
• Treatment: Calcium oxalate stones are not amenable to dissolution through diet, so surgical removal is often required. Preventive measures are crucial to reduce the risk of recurrence, including dietary adjustments to control calcium and oxalate levels, increased water intake to dilute the urine, and regular monitoring urine pH and mineral content.

Prevention and Management

Dr. Amber emphasizes the importance of preventive measures in managing bladder stones:

• Hydration: Ensuring dogs drink plenty of water is crucial to diluting the urine and reducing the concentration of minerals that can form stones. Water fountains can encourage increased water intake, and distilled water may be recommended to minimize mineral content.

• Diet: For dogs predisposed to bladder stones, a veterinarian may recommend a specific diet that helps maintain an appropriate urine pH and reduces the levels of minerals that contribute to stone formation. Following the vet's advice and only making dietary changes with consultation is essential.

• Regular Check-ups: Routine veterinary check-ups, including urinalysis and x-rays, can help detect the early signs of bladder stones and prevent severe complications. Monitoring a dog's urination habits and seeking prompt veterinary advice if abnormalities are observed is also essential.

Conclusion

Key takeaways from this episode include the importance of hydration and regular veterinary check-ups in preventing and managing bladder stones. We encourage you to consult your vets about your pet's urinary health concerns. For more in-depth information, tune in to the full episode.

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Learn how to manage and prevent bladder stones in dogs with expert advice from Dr. Amber and personal insights from Donie. Hydration, diet, and veterinary care are key!