What causes canine urolithiasis?

Struvite Stone Risk Factors Struvite is composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP; also known as triple-phosphate). In dogs, struvite stones are almost universally caused by urinary tract infection (UTI) with urease-producing bacteria; hence these stones are commonly called infection stones.

What are the symptoms of urolithiasis in dogs?

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Stones/Crystals (Urolithiasis) in Dogs

• Frequent urination.
• Blood in the urine.
• Lethargy.
• Depression.
• Reduced appetite.
• Pain.
• Vomiting.
• Inability to urinate.

How is animal urolithiasis treated?

Treatment of sterile struvite urolithiasis focuses on reducing the urine pH to ≤6 and on reducing the urine magnesium concentration by feeding magnesium-restricted diets. Reducing urine pH and magnesium concentration is best accomplished by feeding a commercially available prescription diet formulated for this purpose.

What foods cause calcium oxalate stones in dogs?

Dogs diagnosed with calcium oxalate stones should avoid calcium supplements unless specifically advised by your veterinarian. They should not be fed high oxalate foods such as nuts, rhubarb, beets, green beans, and spinach.

What should dogs with bladder stones not eat?

To decrease the chances of your dog developing bladder stones, or having them return once dissolved, you should avoid feeding foods that contain high levels of oxalate such as spinach, sweet potatoes, organ meat and brown rice.

Is pumpkin good for dogs with bladder stones?

Pumpkin seeds are full of essential fatty acids and antioxidants that support a healthy urinary tract. This is great for avoiding kidney or bladder stones in your dog. These fatty acids and antioxidants are great for supporting your dogs fur coat.

How do you dissolve cystine stones in dogs?

There are two primary treatment strategies for treating cystine bladder stones in dogs: non-surgical removal called urohydropropulsion and surgical removal. In selected cases, small stones may be removed non-surgically by urohydropropulsion.

What dogs are prone to kidney stones?

According to Clements, some smaller dog breeds are considered more susceptible to kidney stones, too, including:

• Lhasa apsos.
• Yorkshire terriers.
• Miniature schnauzers.
• Shih tzus.

What dissolves bladder stones in dogs?

This option is ultrasonic dissolution, a technique in which high frequency ultrasound waves are used to disrupt or break the stones into tiny particles that can then be flushed out of the bladder. It has the advantage of immediate removal of the offending stones without the need for surgery.

How can I increase calcium in my dog?

The Very Best Sources of Calcium for Dogs

1. Yogurt. Yogurt is the most significant source of calcium for dogs.
2. Cheese. Cheese is high in calcium because it is a dairy product.
3. Chicken and Fish. Chicken is an excellent protein source that contains an adequate amount of calcium.
4. Vegetables.
5. Bones.
6. Calcium Supplements.

Are eggs good for dogs with bladder stones?

The following treats are acceptable for oxalate stone forming dogs: plain cooked chicken. plain cooked turkey. eggs.

Is white rice OK for dogs with bladder stones?

To decrease the chances of your dog developing bladder stones, you should avoid feeding foods that contain high levels of oxalate such as spinach, sweet potatoes, organ meat and brown rice. Instead, include foods with lower oxalate levels like apples (peeled), white rice and meats and fish in their diet.

How is urolithiasis treated in dogs and cats?

For the past century, treatment for urolithiasis in dogs and cats has been the province of the surgeon, but with the advent of new technologies, urolith management is evolving. Several minimally invasive procedures are performed daily in veterinary hospitals around the world.

Can a dog with nephrolithiasis have kidney injury?

Nephrolithiasis is generally not associated with an increase in the rate of progression of kidney injury; thus, it is recommended that animals with nephrolithiasis be managed without surgery in most cases. Courtesy of Ontario Veterinary College. The most common urinary stones in dogs are composed of struvite.

What are the symptoms of interstitial nephritis in dogs?

Symptoms of Interstitial Nephritis in Dogs. Pet owners should look for the following signs in their pets for the presence of interstitial nephritis: Bloody or foul smelling urine. Fever. Difficulty urinating. Increased thirst and urination. Drowsiness. Lethargy.

How to reduce urate uroliths in small animals?

Rationale: The high recurrence rate of urate uroliths warrants a comprehensive approach.72 High‐moisture (>75% moisture) foods should be recommended. Alternatively, sufficient water can be added to dry kibble to increase the moisture intake. Strive to achieve a urine specific gravity ≤1.020 in dogs and <1.030 in cats.