Bladder stones form as microscopic crystals accumulate in the bladder, forming one or more stones. Clinical signs of bladder stones are similar to those seen in dogs and cats with other disorders of the bladder and include increased frequency of urination, painful urination or a burning sensation during urination, excess licking at the genitals, and occasionally blood in the urine. In dogs, stones are usually associated with infections as the infection provides a locus for stone formation; in cats, stones are rarely diagnosed in usually do not occur secondary to bladder infections. The most common stones arise from oxalate or struvite crystals.

Treatment Options (Always Consult Your Veterinarian)

Antioxidants – Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E, minerals such as selenium, and other substances such as coenzyme Q-10, bilberry, blueberry, resveratrol, OPC’s, etc., work by reducing cell-harming oxidizing chemicals released upon cell damage and death.

Herbs – alfalfa (to alkalinize the urine,) dandelion leaf, Echinacea, goldenseal , horsetail, marshmallow plantain, Oregon grape, uva ursi, yarrow.

Homeopathics – Canatharis

Homotoxicology – Cantharis, Reneel

Author – Dr. Shawn Messonnier, DVM