How to Treat Bladder Stones in Dogs
If you have just gotten a dog, it's a good idea to learn about different medical conditions that your breed might be prone to so he or she can get the help she needs. One condition you should be aware of is bladder stones, which can be a medical emergency. Read on to learn more about bladder stones and how they can be treated.
What are they exactly?
You may be familiar with gallstones, which are hardened deposits of bile, and kidney stones which are hardened mineral deposits. However, bladder stones are unrelated to these types of stones and their causes. Bladder stones are crystallized deposits of minerals that can be caused by metabolic abnormalities (e.g. high calcium or liver disease), diet imbalances, bacterial infections, or genetic conditions.
What are the symptoms?
If your dog has bladder stones, he or she may struggle to urinate but still try to go frequently. If they're able to urinate, it may be in very small amounts and dribble. Because the stones can rub the bladder wall and irritate internal tissue, you might also notice blood in your dog's urine. Your dog might be lethargic, less active, and show signs of pain.
Why are bladder stones a medical emergency?
If you notice these types of symptoms, you should visit an ER vet right away. Bladder stones can become so large that they can actually obstruct urine and cause ruptures in the bladder which could be fatal.
How will an ER vet treat bladder stones?
First, the staff at the vet clinic will make sure that bladder stones are actually the problem. If the stones aren't too large and not causing pain, the vet may be able to palpate your dog's abdomen and feel the stones. The vet can also use ultrasound or x-rays to spot the stones.
If your dog has stones, the vet can either remove them with urohydropropulsion, dissolution, or surgery. For urohydropropulsion, the vet would insert a catheter into the urethra and bladder and fill it with a fluid, like saline, to help break up the stones and help your dog safely pass them. Some vets may prescribe medications or a dietary change that will help to dissolve the stones. If the stones are too large to pass and your pet is in danger, then the vet could also perform surgery to open up the bladder and remove the stones.
Reach out to services like Animal Emergency Clinic in your area to learn more.
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