Bladder stones are abnormal accumulations of minerals and other substances in the urinary bladder that congregate to form what we commonly refer to as “stones.” Stones usually occur in the hollow organs of the body or in their passages, such as the urinary bladder, kidneys, gall bladder, ureters or urethra. These stones are generically called “calculi.” When they are in the urinary tract, they are called “uroliths.” For our articles, we will just call them
The symptoms of bladder stones in dogs depend largely on the type, number and location of the stones within the urinary tract structures. When stones form and cause a partial or complete blockage of urine outflow, clinical signs quickly develop and rapidly worsen.Many affected dogs show no outward signs of discomfort from urinary tract crystals or stones. The signs become obvious when the crystals damage the urinary tract lining, or when one or more
Fortunately, urinary tract stones (medically called uroliths) are not especially difficult to diagnose in domestic dogs. The key factor is getting affected dogs to a veterinarian as quickly as possible, to avoid bladder rupture or the other potentially life-threatening consequences of urinary tract blockage.Canine stones somewhere in the urinary tract are typically diagnosed based upon the dog’s history as told by the owner, a complete physical examination, a urinalysis and abdominal radiographs (x-rays). Urine culture
Bladder stones in dogs are usually asymptomatic until they move down the urinary tract and become lodged in the urethra. When this happens, the dog will quickly become painful and will attempt to urinate more frequently than normal and will show signs of straining when trying to potty, among other symptoms. Urinary tract obstruction is an extremely serious condition that can lead to rupture of the bladder, and ultimately to death. It is a true