04/05/2026
A dog named Yuki presented in the clinic with a complaint of urinary urgency (frequently urinating with small amount of urine). Upon ultrasound imaging, we see a large focal mass in her urinary bladder lumen. An x-ray imaging was requested for confirmation and a better view of the suspected stone. We confirmed a struvite stoned residing her bladder which was the cause of her straining. A cystotomy surgery was performed to remove the stone in Yuki’s bladder. A strict diet for Yuki to assess potential triggers and prevent the re-occurrence of her infection.
Struvite bladder stones are one of the most common types of stones in dogs, especially in females also known as uroliths. Struvite stones are typically caused by UTIs and urease-producing bacteria (Proteus). Struvite crystals form when the pH of urine becomes more alkaline (high pH) and concentrated.
Certain dietary factors can make a dog more likely to form stones:
•Excessive Minerals: Struvite is made of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate.
•Alkaline-Promoting Ingredients: Some ingredients can make urine more alkaline (higher pH), which is the environment struvite needs to crystallize.
To prevent this, provide a balanced diet and ensure your dog stays hydrated to keep minerals in the urine diluted. Incorporating wet food is highly recommended to increase moisture intake and Ensure fresh water is available at all times. Please consult your vet if you have any further questions about this infection.
For more inquiries, pls visit Golden Pet Veterinary Clinic, or you can message us in this page or you can reach us in in these numbers: 09177002502 or 880-5056.
We are located at Door 1 and 2, Moreno Building, Gusa Highway, Cagayan de Oro City