Can bladder stones be prevented?
The answer is a qualified “yes.” There are at least four types of bladder stones common in pets. If stones are removed surgically or if some small ones pass in the urine, they should be analyzed for their chemical composition. This will permit us to determine if a special diet will be helpful in preventing recurrence. If a bacterial infection causes stone formation, it is recommended that periodic urinalyses and urine cultures be performed to determine when antibiotics should be given. Periodic bladder x-rays or ultrasounds are helpful in determining if bladder stones are recurring. Early recognition may allow us to offer treatment options before your pet requires surgery. ——————————————————————————– This client information sheet is based on material written by Ernest E. Ward Jr., DVM. © Copyright 2002 Lifelearn Inc. Used with permission under license. August 9, 2004.
