Urinary Stone Management
{Urinary Stones in Pets}
Stop Pet Urinary Stone Pain Without Major Surgery
Urinary stones (uroliths) are hardened mineral deposits that form in the bladder, kidneys, or urethra of dogs and cats. These stones can lead to:
- Painful urination or straining
- Urinary blockages (life-threatening)
- Chronic infections and inflammation
While traditional surgery was once the only solution, minimally invasive techniques now offer safer alternatives with faster recovery and lower risk of complications.
{Schedule a Consultation}
If your pet is experiencing urinary discomfort or has a history of urinary stones, contact us today to discuss minimally invasive treatment options.
{Minimally Invasive Approaches} to Stone Management
At Veterinary Specialist Partners (VSP), we prioritize advanced, patient-friendly techniques to manage urinary stones, including:
Ureteroscopy & Laser Lithotripsy
A small camera and laser are used to break down stones into smaller, passable fragments.
Cystoscopic-Assisted Stone Removal (C.A.S.E.)
A specialized scope is inserted into the bladder to remove stones without the need for open surgery.
Oxygen
Percutaneous Cystolithotomy (PCCL)
A small incision is made to extract stones directly from the bladder with minimal tissue disruption.
Urohydropropulsion
A technique to flush out small stones or debris using a catheter and sterile fluid.
Preventing Urinary Stones
Prevention is key in reducing recurrence. Our team provides tailored recommendations, including:
Customized Nutrition Plans: Special veterinary diets help control urinary pH and prevent stone formation.
Regular Urinalysis & Imaging: Routine screenings allow early detection and monitoring of potential stone formation.
Increased Hydration Strategies: Encouraging water intake reduces crystal formation and keeps the urinary tract healthy.
Why Choose VSP?
Our experienced veterinary specialists use advanced technology to offer the best outcomes for your pet. We emphasize comfort, faster recovery, and a proactive approach to preventing future stone issues.
Frequently Asked {Questions}
What are urinary stones and how do they affect my pet?
Seeing signs like straining to urinate, frequent trips outside, blood in the urine, or discomfort can be worrying. Urinary stones form when minerals in the urine clump together and irritate or block the urinary tract. These stones can cause pain, infection, or even a dangerous blockage – which is why early evaluation and treatment matter.
What urinary stone symptoms should make me seek veterinary care?
If your pet is straining to urinate, producing unusually small amounts, crying while urinating, licking the urinary opening frequently, or showing signs of abdominal discomfort, it’s important to get them evaluated right away. These symptoms can indicate stones, infection, or a blockage, all of which require timely care for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Can urinary stones be treated without surgery?
Many stones can be managed without surgery through diet, medical therapy, or minimally invasive techniques. It all depends on the composition of the stones and your pet’s condition. Our goal is to help you choose the safest, most effective approach for your pet’s comfort and long-term urinary health.
When is urinary stone surgery necessary?
In some cases, stones can be large, obstructive, or not responsive to medical management. In those situations, surgical removal may be the best option to relieve discomfort and prevent complications. Luckily, VSP is uniquely equipped to remove stones with the most minimally invasive procedures available. VSP is one of only three practices in the country with thulium laser technology.
Will my pet need long-term care after urinary stones?
Certain types of stones and different breeds of pets are prone to recurrence, so a tailored plan that includes diet changes, monitoring, and periodic checks can help reduce future risk. We’ll work with you to build a plan that fits your pet’s needs and helps you feel confident in managing their health long-term.
Do I need a referral to come in for urinary stone management?
Lots of urinary stone management appointments are scheduled through referral from your primary care vet, who knows your pet’s medical history best, but referrals are not required to meet with our veterinary specialists. If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s symptoms or condition, feel free to reach out to us directly – we can help.
Will my primary veterinarian stay involved in my pet's care?
You don’t have to choose between specialty care and your trusted veterinarian. We work closely with referring doctors and share detailed findings and recommendations. This team-based approach ensures your pet receives consistent, coordinated care at every stage.