Urolithiasis, or bladder stones, involves the formation of mineral crystals that aggregate into stones within the urinary tract. These stones can irritate the bladder lining causing pain and blood, or critically, flush into the urethra causing a life-threatening blockage.
This condition requires veterinary attention.
If your animal shows the Key or Common signs listed, please visit a clinic immediately.
Report Case / Get HelpBladder stones are not contagious. They develop due to a combination of genetic predisposition, dietary factors, urinary pH, and sometimes bacterial infections (especially in dogs with Struvite stones).
Crystals form in the urine and aggregate into stones. These cause chronic cystitis (inflammation). In the most severe stage, a stone lodges in the urethra, blocking urine flow, which causes kidney failure and bladder rupture if unresolved.
Diagnosis is made via urinalysis (to see crystals), abdominal X-rays (which show radiopaque stones), or ultrasound (for radiolucent stones). A urine culture is often done to rule out infection.
Struvite stones may sometimes be dissolved with prescription diets. Calcium oxalate and other stones typically require surgical removal (cystotomy) or non-invasive breaking (lithotripsy). Antibiotics are used if infection is present.
Long-term prevention requires specific prescription diets tailored to the stone type to modify urine pH and mineral content. Increasing water intake to dilute urine is also key.
The prognosis for recovery is good, but recurrence is very common without strict lifelong dietary management and monitoring.
Medical DisclaimerThis information is for education only and does not replace examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified veterinarian.