Bladder Stones in Dogs- 3 most common stones, and the top 3 natural treatments
Dog urine is a complex solution in which salts (e.g. calcium oxalate, magnesium ammonium phosphate) can remain in the solution under conditions of supersaturation.
However, supersaturated urine has the potential to form solids from the dissolved salts. These solids are called crystals. If these crystals aggregate and are not excreted they form uroliths.
The uroliths may damage the lining of the urinary tract resulting in inflammation of the tract. They can also predispose the dog to the development of urinary tract infection, and if they lodge in the ureters or urethra can obstruct urine flow.
Most uroliths are found in the bladder and urethra (with only 5% found in kidneys and ureters). The uroliths are normally named according to their mineral composition - approximately 50% are struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate), 33% are calcium oxalate, 8% are urate, 1% are silicate, 1% are cystine and 7% are mixed.
How are Uroliths Formed?
Conditions contributing to the crystallisation of salts and formation of uroliths include a high concentration of salts in the urine, adequate time in the urinary tract, urine pH favourable for the salts to crystallise, a virus on which crystallisation can occur and reduced concentrations of crystal inhibitors in the urine.
The combination of a high dietary intake of minerals and protein and the ability of dogs to produce highly concentrated urine contributes to the urine becoming supersaturated with salts. In some cases reduced kidney tubule resorption (i.e. calcium, cystine, uric acid) or increase production secondary to bacterial infection (e.g. phosphate and ammonium ions) also contribute to the urine becoming supersaturated.
Specific Treatment for Struvite Uroliths- the MOST Common Stone
1. marked increase in Fluid - for ALL stones additional fluid is key. Canned food, learn how to give subcu fluids ( I have a video on this on youtube:
2. Treat the underlying infection- most cases of struvite are secondary to this. Great home remedy option is 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of green tea. Give twice daily for 21 days
3. Lower the pH of the urine. Struvite forms when urine pH is high. Increase animal protein, add in a 'urinary acidifier' The easiest is by adding in Vitamin C- 100mg/10lbs daily. This has research backing this.
Specific Treatment for Calcium Oxalate Uroliths
There is Limited medical treatment available to break down calcium oxalate uroliths. After surgical removal a moderate restriction of protein, calcium, oxalate and sodium together with normal intake of phosphorus, magnesium and vitamins is advisable to prevent recurrence.
Ca oxalate form when the urine pH is acidic! Yes the opposite of struvite.
Generally you are told that there is NO alternate option..but consider this study which found that Baking Soda ( Na Bicarb) is an EFFECTIVE option.
Dose approx 1/4 teaspoon/10lbs daily. Give for 8-12 weeks.
Potassium citrate at recommended doses given orally may also help to prevent recurrence.
After 6 weeks of potassium citrate/bicarbonate treatment, complete stone dissolution was found in three of the patients. ... CONCLUSION: Urinary alkalization with potassium citrate/bicarbonate is a well tolerated and highly effective treatment, resulting in dissolution of nonobstructing uric acid stones. ( ie baking soda)
Specific Treatment for Urate Uroliths- common in Dalmations
Where urate uroliths are not associated with liver insufficiency, the dog should be fed with Hill's Canine U/D Prescription Diet as it contains reduced protein and purine and produces alkaline urine.
the U/D diet reduces the liver formation of urea and hence the urine concentrating ability. However, recommended doses of salt must be supplemented daily to increase water consumption and urine production as the U/D diet contains a restricted salt content.
Alternate Option
- treat the underlying infection IF present ( ie honey, green tea) - Make the urine more ALKALINE
Baking Soda of Na Bicarbonate at 1/4 teaspoon/10lbs daily
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