Kidney stones in dogs: what you need to know, can it be cured

Main Symptoms of Urinary Stones Disease in Dogs

Urinary stones disease of the struvite type is common in dogs. It affects mature pets, typically around 5-6 years old. Struvite type involves the formation of stones in the kidneys and urinary tract from Magnesium and Phosphorus salts. Small breed pets are particularly prone to this condition, experiencing it at an earlier age.

Major Symptoms of Urinary Stones Disease in Dogs

Females are more likely to suffer from kidney stones, while males are more prone to urinary tract obstructions. This causes discomfort and pain during urination. Predicting the onset is impossible, but potential causes of urinary stones disease in dogs should be considered:

• Excessive mineral intake in the diet;
• Lack of certain substances in urine production;
• Bacteria in the canals from the external environment;
• Infrequent walks (urine stagnation);
• Abnormalities in the urinary system structure. The main signs of urinary stones disease in dogs differ depending on the pet's gender. In females, the disease can go unnoticed for a long time due to subtle symptoms: infrequent urination, blood in the urine, pain upon palpation. Meanwhile, the walls of the bladder thicken, leading to inflammations.

In males: urethral blockage, dribbling urine, swollen abdomen, discomfort. Failure to remove a stone blocking urine flow in time can result in rupture and abdominal cavity infection.

Effectiveness of Treating Urinary Stones Disease in Dogs

Medications for treating urinary stones disease in dogs aim to dissolve stones and prevent their formation. Veterinarians may also prescribe antimicrobial drugs to prevent infection. Existing stones can be removed by:

• Dissolving them;
• Using ultrasound;
• Directing them into the bladder. One crucial aspect of treatment is mineral-enriched water. Sometimes diuretic medications are prescribed. Administering them to the pet without a veterinarian's prescription is prohibited.

If stones are removed from the kidneys, pathways, following a specific diet, and engaging in urinary stones disease prevention, the chances of recurrence are low. Such a pet leads a normal active life and is no different from its peers.

Diet for Dogs with Urinary Stones Disease

Pet owners with affected pets often wonder about suitable diets for dogs with urinary stones disease. Veterinarians recommend purchasing high-calorie premium and super-premium class foods with reduced mineral content. Additionally, provide enriched mineral water.

The specifics of natural feeding for dogs with urinary stones disease depend on the type of stones. For example, with phosphate formations, protein should be limited, and vitamin C should be added to the diet. For ammonium stones, fish and offal should be avoided, replaced with egg whites and plant-based alternatives.

Oxalates require avoiding potatoes and beans, adding Uralit and vitamin B6. For cystine stones, reduce protein intake. Detailed dietary recommendations are provided by the attending veterinarian.

Necessity of Surgery for Urinary Stones Disease in Dogs

If a veterinarian recommends surgical intervention, it is advisable to proceed. Dogs tolerate anesthesia well, and the surgery itself is uncomplicated and frequently performed.

For instance, silicates cannot be dissolved with medication. Therefore, they are surgically removed, followed by prevention of recurrence with a special diet. After the procedure, special care and a gentle regimen are required until the stitches heal.

Adhering to the diet and preventive measures almost always guarantee the absence of recurrences. This is especially crucial for young pets and breeding males, for whom the health of the urogenital system is extremely important.

Prevention of Urinary Stones Disease in Dogs

Preventive measures include:

1. Regular walks on schedule. If the animal holds urine for a long time, it negatively affects the health of the bladder. Urine stagnation promotes stone formation.
2. Balanced diet. Only approved foods for dogs, plenty of clean filtered water, low salt intake. Additionally, provide vitamins.
3. Maintain hygiene of the genital organs, avoid sexual contact with other dogs, especially strays. The likelihood of urinary stones disease recurrence ranges from 20 to 50%.