Bladder stones, also called urinary stones, are more common than they seem in dogs and cats. They cause discomfort when urinating and, in some cases, an obstruction that requires prompt attention.
We explain how to recognize the signs, how they are diagnosed, and what a cystotomy involves, the surgery to remove them. It is a common procedure within soft tissue surgery.
What are urinary stones?
They are hard accumulations of minerals that form in the bladder. They can be the size of a grain of sand or a marble, and sometimes there are several at once. They irritate the bladder wall and, if they migrate toward the urethra, they can block the flow of urine.
Signs to watch for
- Straining or pain when urinating, or repeated postures with almost no result.
- Blood in the urine.
- Urinating in drops or in unusual places.
- Excessive licking of the genital area.
- Lethargy, loss of appetite or vomiting.
An important point: if a male strains a lot and cannot urinate at all, it may be an obstruction. This situation requires prompt veterinary attention, because the bladder cannot empty. Seek an assessment as soon as possible.
How they are diagnosed
Diagnosis relies on the physical exam, urinalysis and imaging studies. Many stones are visible on X-rays or ultrasound, which also tell us how many there are and their size.
What is a cystotomy?
A cystotomy is the surgery in which the bladder is opened to remove the stones. It is a veterinary surgery procedure performed under general anesthesia, with monitoring and pain control. The removed stones are sometimes sent for analysis to learn their composition and prevent them from returning.
How to prevent them from coming back
- Fresh water always available, so your pet urinates frequently.
- The right diet: in some cases a specific food is prescribed according to the type of stone.
- Follow-up checkups, especially if your pet has had stones before.
If you notice any of the signs above, book an assessment. An early diagnosis prevents complications and makes recovery simpler.
Frequently asked questions
Can stones be dissolved without surgery?
Some types of stones can be dissolved with special diets, but not all. When they are large, numerous or cause an obstruction, surgery is usually the safest option. Your veterinarian defines the plan based on the case.
Is it more common in males or females?
Both can develop stones, but an obstruction is more dangerous in males because their urethra is narrower and longer. That is why, in a male that cannot urinate, you must act without delay.
Is a cystotomy a risky surgery?
It is a common soft tissue procedure. Like any surgery it has risks, but they are reduced with a pre-surgical assessment, monitored anesthesia and pain control. Most pets recover well in 10 to 14 days.
Will the stones come back?
They can return if the cause is not corrected. That is why we analyze their composition when possible and adjust diet, hydration and follow-up to reduce the risk of new ones forming.
How do I schedule an assessment?
You can book a consultation or message us on WhatsApp. If you notice straining to urinate or blood in the urine, seek care as soon as possible.