Seeing your dog uncomfortable is never easy. Bladder stones, unfortunately, are a frequent culprit of canine discomfort. But don’t worry, with a bit of knowledge, we can navigate this together.

What are Bladder Stones?

Imagine tiny, hard mineral formations, much like pebbles, developing within your dog’s bladder. These are bladder stones, also known as uroliths. They vary in size, from tiny grains of sand to stones as large as a golf ball. These stones can cause irritation, inflammation, and even blockages in the urinary tract, leading to significant discomfort and potential complications.

Types of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Just as there are different types of pebbles, there are various types of bladder stones. The most common ones we see in dogs are:

Struvite Stones: Often linked to urinary tract infections, these are more common in female dogs.
Calcium Oxalate Stones: These are becoming increasingly prevalent and can be influenced by diet and genetics.
Urate Stones: More common in certain breeds, such as Dalmatians, due to genetic predispositions.
Cystine Stones: Another type often linked to genetic factors, particularly in male dogs.
Silica Stones: Less common, but can occur due to dietary factors.

Symptoms and Signs

Recognising the signs early can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for:

Straining to urinate, or producing only small amounts of urine.
Blood in the urine (haematuria).
Frequent urination.
Accidents in the house (urinating inappropriately).
Licking the genital area.
Signs of pain or discomfort, such as restlessness, whining, or a hunched posture.
Loss of appetite.

If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to bladder stone formation:

Diet: Diets high in certain minerals or with an inappropriate pH balance can increase the risk.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs can alter urine composition, promoting stone formation, especially struvite stones.
Genetics: Some breeds are predisposed to specific types of stones.
Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can concentrate urine, making stone formation more likely.
Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic conditions can affect urine composition.
Medications: Some medications can alter the urine chemistry.

How are Bladder Stones in Dogs Diagnosed?

Your vet will likely use a combination of methods to diagnose bladder stones:

Physical Examination: Feeling the abdomen to detect any abnormalities.
Urinalysis: Examining the urine for signs of infection, crystals, or blood.
Radiographs (X-rays): To visualise the stones in the bladder.
Ultrasound: A more detailed imaging technique to assess the bladder and kidneys.
Blood Tests: To evaluate kidney function and detect any underlying health issues.
Stone Analysis: If a stone is retrieved, it can be analysed to determine its type, which helps guide treatment.

Bladder Stones Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the stones, as well as your dog’s overall health:

Dietary Management: Special diets can help dissolve certain types of stones (like struvite) or prevent their recurrence.
Increased Water Intake: Encouraging your dog to drink more water helps dilute the urine.
Medications: Antibiotics for UTIs, and medications to alter urine pH or dissolve stones.
Cystotomy (Surgical Removal): For large stones or those causing blockages, surgery may be necessary.
Voiding Urohydropropulsion: A non-surgical method where a catheter is used to flush small stones out of the bladder.
Lithotripsy: Using shock waves to break down stones into smaller pieces that can be passed through the urine.

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a tailored treatment plan for your dog. Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential to prevent recurrence.

Seeing your dog through this can be a bit worrying, but with prompt veterinary care and a little bit of patience, they’ll be back to their happy selves in no time.