09/21/2025
It has been unofficial bladder stone month at Animal Urgent Care. Bladder stones (uroliths) are much more common than most pet owners realize and can pose life threatening consequences to our pets.
Bladder stones start off as small minerals/crystals that can grow and organize into very large stones. This process takes months and symptoms are similar to any condition that causes pain/inflammation in the bladder (such as urinary tract infections) which may include:
-Pain/licking at ge****ls
-Urinating small amounts more frequently
-Blood in urine
-Dribbling urine
-Urinating in unusual places
This condition posses a greater risk to male species (particularly cats) who are more prone to urinary obstructions due to their smaller/longer urethra. This condition can be fatal if not treated promptly.
This is why your veterinarian may advise x-rays in addition to a urinalysis when your pet presents with lower urinary tract symptoms. Certain types of stones that are caught in the early/crystalline stage may be managed medically while others (see photos below) have to be removed surgically.
Always make sure to have your pet seen immediately at the first sign of lower urinary tract symptoms.
