Dog Bloat: Know About the Symptoms and Treatment of Bloat in Dogs

Bladder stones also known as urinary calculi, are collections of precipitated minerals which have solidified into crystals, gradually building to form stones. They can be found in any part of the urinary tract as well as the the kidneys, urethra and ureter, although more commonly they are found in the bladder. They can form in many different sizes or shapes within the bladder and can cause severe inflammation.

Some dogs may show no symptoms, however in others, symptoms may include frequent attempts at urination with minimal urine production, blood in the urine, repeated bladder infections, straining during urination due to urinary blockage. Veterinarians may be able to feel stones through the abdominal wall during a physical examination. Bladder stones can be caused by too much calcium in the urine or high levels of substances which affect the levels of minerals in the urine leading to stone formation. Some dogs may have a genetic disposition to forming bladder stones, diet has also been implicated as well as the PH level in the urine which not only determines the formation of new stones but the ability of existing ones to be sufficiently dissolved. Bacterial infections can affect the PH of the urine and infections such as cystitis lead to the production of certain substances which can form bladder stones. Dogs between the ages of 4 - 6 years old and female dogs are more prone to developing bladder stones.

Diagnosis is made through a physical examination by your veterinarian and abdominal X rays. A urinalysis can help to determine the cause of kidney stones, particularly in the cases of infection. Early treatment is important, particularly if your dog is not making any urine, this may suggest urinary obstruction which is considered a medical emergency, proving fatal if left untreated. In other cases small stones may occasionally be passed during urination. For larger stones, treatment options include surgery known as a cystotomy where the bladder is opened to remove the stones. For smaller stones which have not been passed, an Urohydropropulsion is used, to help flush out smaller stones using a saline solution. Antibiotics are often prescribed after surgery to help prevent post operative infection.

Stones are often examined to determine the makeup of these and to find appropriate ways of preventing these in the future. For example some stones are made up of calcium, magnesium or ammonium phosphate and whilst others are a combination of many different type of minerals. For some stone formations, medication such as antibiotics can be prescribed to stop new stones from forming and to help dissolve existing stones. In other cases modifications to the diet can help to treat and prevent further stone from forming. Ensuring your dog drinks plenty of water, eats wet food or foods specifically manufactured for kidney stone prevention, are useful preventative measures. Taking preventative measure in dogs that have developed bladder stones is very important as they may be more prone to developing these again in the future.