Bladder stones are more common in our pets than you might realise. Not only can they cause discomfort and urinary blockages, but they can also be the cause of some pretty serious complications, especially in cats. The good news is that spotting the early signs in your pet can make all the difference.
What are bladder stones?
Despite the name, bladder stones aren’t ‘stones’ at all – they’re a build-up of minerals in the bladder. These minerals form into hard clumps over time (a bit like scale in a kettle), which can irritate and damage the bladder lining. They can be anywhere from the size of a grain of sand to larger stones that almost fill the bladder.
There are different types of bladder stones, including:
- Struvite: The most frequently diagnosed and often linked to urinary tract infections
- Calcium oxalate: Rarely dissolve with diet and often require surgery
- Urate: Mainly seen in dogs with specific liver conditions, and breeds such as Dalmatians
- Cystine: These are typically linked to genetic conditions and are quite rare
In dogs, bladder stones are commonly caused by infections and tend to be of the struvite variety. In cats, they are often linked to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), with serious blockages more common in males.
Causes of bladder stones
There’s rarely just one cause when it comes to bladder stones in our pets. It’s usually a mix of different factors, including:
- Diet: Especially a diet high in magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. Vet-approved diets are formulated to regulate mineral levels and urine PH
- Hydration: Poor hydration makes urine more concentrated with minerals and waste products
- Urinary tract infections: These can change the urine pH, making it too acidic or too alkaline
- Genetics: Some breeds of dogs and cats are more prone to bladder stones, including Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frise, Poodles, Persians, and Burmese
Common signs to look out for
Our pets can’t talk (such a shame!), so spotting the early signs of bladder stones can be challenging. The most noticeable are:
- Straining to urinate
- Blood in their urine
- Going to the toilet more frequently
- Accidents in the house
- Pain or vocalising when they urinate
You may also notice their urine is cloudy or smelly, and they may lick their genital area more.
Diagnosis and treatment options
Your vet will use a combination of physical exams, urinalysis, imaging (such as X-rays or ultrasound) and they may also send off part of the stone for analysis. Once diagnosed, they may advise specific prescription diets, medications, stone dissolution, and surgery, if needed. Surgery can offer fast relief for your pet, especially if they have a blockage. If there are any underlying causes, your vet may also help manage underlying liver or metabolic conditions.
How to prevent bladder stones
Most pets recover well from having bladder stones, but the key to avoid them in the future is to focus on hydration (think, multiple water bowls around the house and wet food), vet-approved urinary diets, regular vet check-ups and urine testing (especially for high-risk breeds), and prompt attention to urinary tract infections and irritations.
When to see a vet
If you notice any of the early signs, such as blood in their urine, accidents in the house or frequent urination, book a check-up with your vet. If you notice any of the following signs, speak to your vet immediately:
- Your pet is straining to go, but having no success (possible blockage)
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
These combinations of signs could mean a urinary blockage, which can be fatal if untreated.
