Dr. Becker Discusses Struvite Stones and Crystals

Struvite stones are bladder stones that develop in both dogs and cats. The condition accounts for over a third of all urinary tract stones in dogs and about half of all urinary stones in cats. The problem is seen most often in female pets at middle age

Struvite stones can be caused by alkaline urine, steroid therapy, abnormal retention of urine, a urinary tract infection, or another disorder of the urinary tract. Common symptoms include frequent urination, straining to urinate, urinating in inappropriate places, cloudy or bloody urine, and increased thirst

Diagnosis of a stone will include manual palpation of the abdomen, urinalysis, a urine culture and sensitivity test, x-rays and ultrasounds

If urine flow is completely blocked, this is a medical emergency and you should have your pet seen by a veterinarian right away. Otherwise, the situation can often be managed with medication and dietary adjustments

To reduce urine pH — which is the goal in most struvite situations — you must feed your pet a low-carb, grain-free, potato-free, species-appropriate diet. When dogs and cats who are designed to eat meat are fed a grain-based diet or a starch-rich diet, the starch alkalizes urine pH, which can lead to the development of struvite crystals and stones. Sometimes, surgery is required to remove stones in the urethra, ureters or bladder

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