Struvite Diet for Dogs: Diet Tips

Bladder stones in dogs develop when certain minerals in urine crystallise and form solid masses within the bladder. They are a relatively common condition in dogs and can cause significant discomfort and health complications if left untreated. This guide covers the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of bladder stones in dogs.

Types of Bladder Stones in Dogs

The most common types of bladder stones in dogs are:

• Struvite stones: The most common type, often forming as a result of bacterial urinary tract infections. They are composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate.
• Calcium oxalate stones: The second most common type, more frequently seen in older, male, and small breed dogs. They cannot be dissolved with dietary management and typically require surgical removal or other intervention.
• Urate stones: More common in Dalmatians due to a genetic predisposition affecting uric acid metabolism, and in dogs with liver disease such as portosystemic shunts.
• Cystine stones: A rarer type caused by an inherited metabolic disorder affecting certain breeds including the Dachshund, English Bulldog, and Basset Hound.

Causes of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Causes vary depending on stone type but can include urinary tract infections, dietary factors, genetics, metabolic disorders, and changes in urine pH. Some breeds are predisposed to certain stone types, which is worth considering when choosing a diet or monitoring your dog’s urinary health.

Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Common signs include:

• Straining to urinate or frequent attempts with little output
• Blood in the urine (haematuria)
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Discomfort or crying out when urinating
• Licking at the genitals
• Urinating in unusual places

In some cases, a stone may obstruct the urethra entirely, preventing urination. This is a veterinary emergency requiring immediate attention.

Diagnosis of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Diagnosis typically involves urinalysis to check for infection and crystals, X-rays (most stone types are visible on X-ray), and ultrasound. In some cases, more advanced imaging may be needed if the stones are not clearly visible on standard X-ray.

Treatment of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Treatment depends on the stone type and the individual dog’s circumstances:

• Dietary dissolution: Struvite stones can often be dissolved with a prescription dissolution diet and treatment of any underlying infection. This process can take several weeks to months.
• Surgery (cystotomy): Surgical removal of the bladder stones is the most direct treatment and may be recommended for large stones, stones that cannot be dissolved, or dogs with urethral obstruction.
• Urohydropropulsion: In some cases, small stones can be flushed out of the bladder non-surgically by a vet.
• Laser lithotripsy: Available at specialist centres, this technique uses a laser to break up stones which can then be flushed away.

Prevention of Bladder Stones in Dogs

Preventive measures include ensuring adequate water intake (which dilutes urine and reduces mineral concentration), feeding an appropriate diet (prescription diets are available for dogs prone to certain stone types), and treating urinary tract infections promptly. Dogs that have had stones previously are at higher risk of recurrence and should be monitored regularly.