23/10/2026
๐งก๐ค EVER WONDER WHAT OUR VETS SEE DOWN THE MICROSCOPE? ๐ฌ
This week at Edgewater Vet Hospital: It was URINE CRYSTALS! ๐
Your petโs urine can tell us a lot about their health! When we examine a urine sample under our microscope, we can sometimes spot tiny crystals made from minerals in the urine.
You may ask ..What are urine crystals?
Urine crystals can occur in both dogs and cats. Sometimes theyโre harmless, but in other cases they may be associated with bladder stones or underlying urinary problems.
๐ถ๐ฑ What signs should you look out for?
โข Frequently asking to go outside or visiting the litter tray more often
โข Straining or taking longer to urinate
โข Passing only small amounts of urine
โข Blood in the urine
โข Urinating in unusual places
โข Licking around their private area more than usual
๐ How are urine crystals treated?
Treatment depends on the type of crystals and your petโs individual needs. Your vet may recommend:
๐งช Urine testing to check for crystals, infection and urine concentration.
๐ง Encouraging water intake to help dilute the urine.
๐ฅฃ A specially formulated veterinary urinary diet, when appropriate.
๐ Medication if an underlying condition or infection is identified.
๐ฉป X-rays or ultrasound if bladder stones are suspected.
๐จ IMPORTANT: If your pet is straining but cannot pass urine, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. A urinary blockage can be life-threatening, especially in male cats.
๐พ The good news? A simple urine test can give our vets valuable information to help investigate urinary problems and guide the right treatment.
๐ Concerned about your petโs toilet habits? Contact Edgewater Vet Hospital to arrange a check-up.
๐งก Caring for your pets, one little clue at a time!