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Bladder Stones in Female Dogs – The Complete Guide
Bladder stones in female dogs can be a serious condition. It is important to know the symptoms, causes and treatments for this condition in order to keep your pup healthy and happy. In this article, we will take a look at bladder stones in female dogs, including the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Bladder Stones in Female Dogs?
Bladder stones in female dogs are mineral deposits that form inside the bladder. They are also known as cystoliths, uroliths or calculi. These stones can range in size from tiny grains to large masses. The most common type of bladder stone is struvite, which is composed of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate.
Bladder stones can cause pain and discomfort for your dog and can even lead to other health problems. It is important to know the symptoms and causes of bladder stones in order to get your pup the help she needs.
Causes of Bladder Stones in Female Dogs
The exact cause of bladder stones in female dogs is not known, however, there are certain factors that are believed to contribute to the formation of bladder stones. These include:
- Diet: Certain foods can increase the risk of bladder stones, including diets that are high in calcium and phosphorus.
- Infections: Bacterial infections of the urinary tract can lead to the formation of bladder stones.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can lead to an increase in the levels of certain minerals in the urine, which can lead to the formation of bladder stones.
Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Female Dogs
The symptoms of bladder stones in female dogs can vary depending on the size and location of the stones. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent Urination: Your dog may urinate more frequently than usual or have difficulty urinating.
- Painful Urination: Your dog may cry out in pain when urinating.
- Blood in the Urine: The presence of blood in the urine can be a sign of bladder stones.
- Straining to Urinate: Your dog may strain to urinate or have difficulty passing urine.
- Lethargy: Your dog may be more lethargic than usual.
Diagnosis of Bladder Stones in Female Dogs
If your dog is showing any of the above symptoms, it is important to take her to the vet for a diagnosis. The vet will perform a physical examination and may order blood tests, urine tests and imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds to diagnose bladder stones. The vet may also use a cystoscope to examine the bladder and obtain a sample of the stones for further testing.
Treatment of Bladder Stones in Female Dogs
The treatment of bladder stones in female dogs will depend on the size and type of the stones. Small stones may be able to be dissolved with dietary changes or medications. Larger stones may need to be surgically removed. After surgery, your dog may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for observation.
In addition to surgery, your vet may also prescribe medications to help dissolve the stones and prevent the formation of new stones. Your vet may also recommend dietary changes to help prevent the formation of bladder stones.
Preventing Bladder Stones in Female Dogs
The best way to prevent bladder stones in female dogs is to feed your pup a balanced diet and provide her with plenty of fresh water. Your vet may also recommend adding supplements to your dog’s diet to help reduce the risk of bladder stones. It is also important to keep an eye on your pup’s urinary habits and to take her to the vet for regular check-ups.
Conclusion
Bladder stones in female dogs can be a serious condition and it is important to be aware of the symptoms, causes and treatments for this condition. If your pup is showing any of the symptoms of bladder stones, it is important to take her to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment and prevention, your pup can stay healthy and happy.
