Calcium oxalate stones in pets can cause serious urinary issues. Is your pet having trouble urinating? Do they frequently visit the litter box or go outside without producing much urine? Are they showing signs of pain, such as vocalizations or excessive licking of the genital area? Have you noticed blood in their urine?
These symptoms may indicate the presence of crystals in the urinary tract. In dogs, calcium oxalate and struvite crystals are the most common. These crystals can aggregate, forming stones that irritate and, in severe cases, cause potentially fatal urinary blockage within 24 to 48 hours.
Risk Factors and Predispositions for Calcium Oxalate Stones in Pets
Calcium oxalate crystals usually form when urine is neutral or acidic (pH < 7.0). Older male dogs are more susceptible, and certain breeds, such as Bichon Frise, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso, Miniature Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer, and Yorkshire Terrier, have genetic predispositions.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will use several tools to confirm calcium oxalate crystals and exclude other potential causes:
- Urinalysis: Detects crystals and possible infections.
- Ultrasound: Provides 3-dimensional visualization of the bladder and kidneys to detect stones.
- Radiographs: Confirms stone presence and their exact location.
- Blood tests: Evaluate calcium levels and identify potential kidney damage.
Treatment and Prevention of Calcium Oxalate Stones in Pets
Unlike struvite crystals, calcium oxalate crystals cannot be dissolved with dietary changes. Surgical intervention is usually required to remove stones. Post-surgery, laboratory analysis confirms stone composition.
To reduce recurrence risks, several preventive measures are recommended:
- Encourage increased water intake (full water bowls, water fountains, flavor additions like tuna juice).
- Choose diets designed to maintain urinary pH above 7.0 (e.g., Hill’s C/D, Royal Canine Urinary S/O or Purina UR ST/OX food).
- Regular urine monitoring and periodic radiographs to detect crystal recurrence.
If your pet shows signs of urinary issues, contact us promptly for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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