Dog Bladder Stones Diet

Bladder stones or uroliths are an increasingly common occurrence in domestic dogs. They can appear either as crystals or stones – rock-like collections of minerals that form in the urinary bladder in varying sizes and numbers. They can occur as a number of large stones or as collections of smaller stones. There are several types of canine bladder stones, and your vet will have told you which particular type of stone your dog is suffering from.

Struvite stones are generally caused by urinary tract infections. They can invariably be treated without surgery and normally without dietary adjustment. That said, a properly formulated diet prepared by a dog nutritionist can help prevent struvite stones every forming. It can certainly help them ever returning!

Calcium oxalate, urate, silicate, cystine and calcium phosphate are caused by metabolic abnormalities. Abnormalities such as liver disease, dietary nutrient imbalances or genetic conditions. Struvite and calcium oxalate are the most common types of stones. Calcium oxalate stones are more likely to occur in overweight, under exercised, neutered or spayed dogs. Especially those fed on dry commercial dog food. Certain prescription drugs can also contribute to their incidence, as can breed disposition.

Breeds such as Miniature Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos, West Highland White Terriers, Bichon Frises, Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus are all considered prone to bladder stones. As are Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, Pomeranians, Papillons, Parson Russell Terriers, Chihauhuas, Dachshunds, Cairn Terriers and Maltese.

Cortisone-type drugs prescribed for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin conditions and IBD can be a contributory cause. Of course a remedial feeding guide can cure those conditions without the need of expensive and harmful prescription drugs

Treatment of dog bladder stones

Modern research shows that calcium oxalate stones in particuar can be treated effectively with a specialist dog bladder stones diet from a canine nutritionist. If your dog’s bladder stones are more problematic, I suggest booking a consultation and I will help you prepare a diet specifically for your individual dog.