Understanding Bladder Stones in Pets
Bladder stones, or uroliths, are mineral deposits that form in the bladder of dogs and cats. These stones can cause discomfort, difficulty urinating, and even life-threatening blockages if left untreated. While some bladder stones can be dissolved through diet and medication, others require surgical removal through a procedure called cystotomy.
Signs Your Pet Might Have Bladder Stones
Recognizing the symptoms of bladder stones early can prevent complications. Common signs include:
- Straining to urinate
- Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
- Blood in the urine
- Discomfort or pain when urinating
- Licking the genital area excessively
- Accidents in the house (for dogs) or outside the litter box (for cats)
If your pet exhibits these symptoms, a veterinary visit is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Is Cystotomy Surgery?
Cystotomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove bladder stones when other treatments are ineffective. It involves making an incision in the bladder to extract the stones, providing immediate relief from the blockage and discomfort.
When Is Cystotomy Necessary?
Your veterinarian may recommend cystotomy if:
- Stones are too large to pass naturally
- Dietary changes and medications fail to dissolve the stones
- The pet experiences frequent urinary tract infections due to the stones
- A complete urinary blockage occurs (which is a medical emergency)
Preparing for Cystotomy Surgery
Pre-Surgical Diagnosis
Before surgery, your veterinarian will conduct tests to assess the severity of the condition. These may include:
- Urinalysis – Detects signs of infection, blood, and crystals in the urine. This test helps determine whether an infection is present and if antibiotic treatment is needed before surgery. It also provides insights into the pH and concentration of the urine, which can indicate the type of stones formed.
- X-rays or Ultrasound – Helps visualize the size and location of the stones. X-rays are particularly useful for detecting larger mineralized stones, while ultrasound can help identify softer stones that may not appear clearly on an X-ray. This imaging ensures that the vet has a precise understanding of the bladder’s condition before surgery.
- Blood Tests – Evaluates kidney function and overall health before anesthesia. Since bladder stones can sometimes affect kidney function, blood tests are essential to assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste. These tests also help determine if the pet is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia safely.
How to Prepare Your Pet
Your vet will provide pre-surgery instructions, which may include:
- Fasting – No food for at least 8-12 hours before surgery. This precaution is necessary to prevent complications during anesthesia, such as vomiting and aspiration. Ensuring an empty stomach also allows the anesthesia to take full effect with minimal risk.
- Hydration – Ensuring your pet drinks water unless instructed otherwise. Proper hydration helps maintain healthy kidney function and urinary flow before surgery. However, in some cases, the vet may recommend limiting water intake if the pet has other health conditions.
- Medication Adjustments – If your pet is on medication, the vet will advise whether to continue or pause it before surgery. Some medications can interfere with anesthesia or increase bleeding risk, so the vet will provide guidance on which drugs to withhold and which to continue.
What Happens During Cystotomy?
The Surgical Process
- Anesthesia Administration – Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure they remain comfortable and pain-free.
- Bladder Access – A small incision is made in the lower abdomen to access the bladder.
- Stone Removal – The vet will carefully open the bladder, remove the stones, and flush the bladder to ensure all debris is cleared.
- Bladder Closure – The incision is sutured, and the abdomen is closed.
- Post-Surgical Monitoring – Your pet will be closely monitored as they wake up from anesthesia.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
- Pain Management – Your vet will prescribe pain relief medication. Pain management is crucial to keep your pet comfortable and prevent unnecessary stress. Follow dosage instructions carefully and watch for signs of discomfort, such as whining or reluctance to move.
- Antibiotics – If there was an infection, antibiotics may be needed. Completing the full antibiotic course as prescribed is essential to prevent reinfection and ensure a smooth recovery. Monitor your pet for any side effects like vomiting or diarrhea.
- Restricted Activity – Limited movement helps with healing; no running or jumping. Excessive movement can strain the surgical site and cause complications like wound reopening. Consider setting up a quiet recovery area with soft bedding to keep your pet comfortable.
- Special Diet – A prescription diet may be recommended to prevent future stones. Your vet may suggest a diet that promotes urinary health by adjusting mineral levels and pH balance. Sticking to the prescribed diet is crucial for long-term prevention.
- Monitoring Urination – Ensure your pet is urinating without difficulty. Some pets may experience mild discomfort when urinating after surgery, but prolonged straining, blood in the urine, or lack of urination should be reported to the vet immediately.
Follow-Up Care
- Vet Checkups – Your pet will need follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. These checkups help assess whether the surgical site is healing well and if the bladder is functioning properly
- Suture Removal – If non-dissolvable stitches were used, they will be removed after 10-14 days. Your vet will check the incision site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
- Urine Tests – Regular testing may be needed to monitor for recurrence. Since some pets are predisposed to bladder stones, periodic urinalysis can help detect early signs of stone formation before they become a serious issue.
Preventing Bladder Stones in Pets
While some pets are genetically prone to bladder stones, preventive measures can help reduce the risk:
- Provide Fresh Water – Proper hydration dilutes minerals that contribute to stone formation. Encourage your pet to drink more by using a pet water fountain or adding wet food to their diet.
- Balanced Diet – Follow your vet’s dietary recommendations, especially if your pet has a history of stones. Certain prescription diets are formulated to reduce the likelihood of crystal formation in the bladder.
- Regular Vet Visits – Routine checkups can help detect early signs before they become a serious problem. Regular screenings allow your vet to make dietary or lifestyle adjustments before stones develop.
- Monitor Urination – Keep an eye on any changes in your pet’s bathroom habits. Any difficulty, straining, or blood in the urine should be reported to the vet as soon as possible.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
While most pets recover well from cystotomy, watch for any complications such as:
- Straining or inability to urinate
- Excessive licking at the surgical site
- Persistent pain or lethargy
- Loss of appetite or vomiting
If any of these occur, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Need Emergency Veterinary Care?
If your pets are in an emergency or if you have general inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Veterinary Emergency Centre.
General Hotline: 2334-2334
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 6828-6620
