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Bladder stones are a painful condition for dogs and cats and occurs
when “stones” form in the urinary tract. There are several
different types of bladder stones, the most common being struvite stones
and oxalate stones. Oxalate stones are made up of magnesium ammonium
phosphate, while struvite stones are made of calcium oxalate, calcium
apatite, cystine or ammonium urate.
Bladder stones are made up of minerals, and over time, they can collect
together to form small grains of crystals, that if left untreated, grow
in size, sometimes reaching three or four inches in diameter. There are
several different things that bring about this change in the bladder,
including: genetics, infection, diet and changes in urine pH.
What are the symptoms of bladder stones?
Some dogs and cats show no symptoms of bladder stones. However, the most
common signs are bloody urine, recurrent bladder and urinary tract
infections and straining to urinate.
How are bladder stones diagnosed?
Most often, bladder stones are found in a yearly routine exam when the
veterinarian is feeling the dog or cat’s abdomen. If bladder
stones are suspected, your veterinarian will take an X-ray in order
to determine the presence and size of the stones. Your veterinarian
may use a dye in the bladder to help him see the stones better on the
X-ray.
How are bladder stones treated?
Bladder stones will need to be surgically removed from your dog or cat’s
bladder. It is a similar procedure to getting your pet spayed. It is
a small incision and usually heals rather quickly. The stones are removed
from the bladder and urethra and then it is washed with a sterile solution
and closed. The bladder stones will be sent to the laboratory for analysis
as well as a urine culture.
What will happen after surgery?
After surgery, your veterinarian will most likely prescribe a special
diet, including increased water consumption. Drinking more water lowers
the pH of your pet’s urine, making it harder for crystals to
form. Your veterinarian will also put your pet on special food, such
as Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d, which also helps adjust the
pH of your pet’s urine.
**This article is not meant to provide a diagnosis
for your pet. If your pet is sick or showing unusual symptoms,
please contact your local veterinarian for a diagnosis**
©2009 PetSupplies4Less.com
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