Bladder Stones in Cats

The common feline health problem that pet owners should be aware of is bladder stones in cats. These small, mineralized formations can cause discomfort and pain for our feline friends. In this article, we will explore what bladder stones are, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures to keep your cat healthy and happy.

What Are Bladder Stones?

Bladder stones, also known as uroliths or urinary calculi, are solid mineral deposits that form in the urinary bladder of cats. These stones vary in size and composition, but the most common types are struvite and calcium oxalate stones. Struvite stones are primarily composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate, while calcium oxalate stones consist mainly of calcium oxalate crystals.

Types of Bladder Stones in Cats

The most common types of bladder stones in cats include:

1. Struvite Stones (Magnesium-Ammonium-Phosphate Stones)

Struvite stones are the most common type of bladder stones in cats.
They typically form in alkaline (high-pH) urine and are often associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Struvite stones can grow rapidly and may cause obstruction in the urinary tract.
Special prescription diets that create a more acidic urine pH can help dissolve struvite stones.

2. Calcium Oxalate Stones

Calcium oxalate stones are another common type of bladder stone in cats.
They form in acidic (low-pH) urine.
Unlike struvite stones, calcium oxalate stones do not dissolve with dietary management.
Treatment often involves surgical removal or minimally invasive techniques like lithotripsy.

3. Urate Stones

Urate stones are relatively rare in cats but can occur, especially in certain breeds like the Dalmatian.
These stones are composed of uric acid and are often associated with liver disease.
Treatment may involve dietary adjustments and medications to manage underlying liver issues.

4. Cystine Stones

Cystine stones are exceptionally rare in cats and are composed of the amino acid cystine.
They are usually associated with an inherited metabolic disorder called cystinuria.
Treatment may require dietary modifications and medications to manage the metabolic disorder.

5. Other Stones

Less common types of bladder stones in cats include ammonium urate, silica, and mixed stones.
These stones may require specific diagnostic and treatment approaches based on their composition.

Bladder stones can affect both male and female cats, but there are some differences in how they can manifest and the potential risks associated with each gender. Let's explore bladder stones in female cats and male cats separately:

Bladder Stones in Female Cats

Bladder stones in female cats are not uncommon, and they share many similarities with bladder stones in males. However, due to differences in anatomy, female cats may experience some distinct characteristics: Female cats can display similar symptoms to males when they have bladder stones. These symptoms may include straining to urinate, frequent urination, blood in the urine, and discomfort while urinating.

Bladder Stones in Male Cats

Male cats, due to their anatomy, face some unique challenges and potential risks when it comes to bladder stones. Male cats are more prone to urinary tract obstructions due to their narrower and longer urethra compared to females. This can be caused by bladder stones or other factors like mucus plugs or inflammation.

How Common Are Bladder Stones in Cats

Bladder stones are relatively common in domestic cats, with estimates suggesting that they affect around 1% to 2% of all cats at some point in their lives. However, the actual incidence can be higher in specific breeds or groups of cats. For example, some cat breeds, like Persians and Himalayas, are more predisposed to developing bladder stones.

What Causes Bladder Stones in Cats?

Bladder stones can form in cats due to various factors, including diet, genetics, and urinary tract health. Here are some of the primary causes of bladder stones in cats:

• Diet: Diet plays a significant role in the formation of bladder stones. Cats consuming diets that are high in certain minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, are more susceptible to stone formation. Excess minerals in the urine can lead to the precipitation and crystallization of these minerals, eventually forming stones.

• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can result in concentrated urine, which is more likely to promote crystal and stone formation. Cats that do not drink enough water are at a higher risk of developing bladder stones.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections in the urinary tract can create an environment conducive to the formation of struvite bladder stones. The presence of bacteria can increase the pH of the urine, making it more alkaline and favorable for struvite crystal formation.

• Metabolic Disorders: Cats with certain metabolic disorders, such as hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), may be more prone to developing certain types of bladder stones.

• Urinary Stasis: Any condition that slows or obstructs the flow of urine through the urinary tract can contribute to stone formation. This may include anatomical abnormalities, tumors, or bladder inflammation.

Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Cats

Detecting bladder stones early is crucial for your cat's well-being. Look out for these common signs and symptoms:

• Straining to urinate

• Frequent urination in small amounts

• Blood in the urine

• Pain or discomfort while urinating

• Licking the genital area excessively

• Inability to urinate (a medical emergency)

Are Cats in Pain with Bladder Stones?

Yes, cats with bladder stones often experience difficulty and discomfort when urinating. They may strain to pass urine, which can be painful. Cats in pain may lick their genital area excessively in an attempt to alleviate discomfort or clean themselves.

In severe cases, bladder stones can lead to a complete urinary obstruction, preventing the cat from urinating at all. This is a medical emergency and causes severe pain, distress, and potential complications like kidney damage.

Natural Ways to Dissolve Bladder Stones in Cats

While some bladder stones in cats may require surgical removal or specialized prescription diets for dissolution, there are certain natural approaches that may help prevent or manage bladder stones, especially for cats prone to struvite stones. Here are some natural ways to support your cat's urinary health and potentially aid in dissolving struvite stones:

1. Increased Water Intake

Ensure your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Cats are more likely to form struvite stones in concentrated urine, so promoting hydration is essential.
Consider using a pet water fountain, as some cats are more inclined to drink moving water.

2. Moisture-Rich Diet

Feeding wet or canned cat food can increase your cat's overall moisture intake, helping to dilute urine and reduce the risk of stone formation.
Consult your veterinarian for advice on the best diet for your cat's specific needs.

3. Urinary Supplements

Some supplements, such as cranberry extract or omega-3 fatty acids, may support urinary health and reduce inflammation. However, consult your vet before adding any supplements to your cat's diet.

4. Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies like marshmallow root or uva ursi may be used under veterinary guidance to promote urinary health and reduce inflammation. These should be used with caution and only as recommended by a veterinarian.

5. Acidifying Diet

In some cases, a veterinarian may recommend an acidifying diet to dissolve struvite stones. These diets aim to reduce the pH of the urine to dissolve the stones. It's crucial to consult your vet before making any dietary changes.

6. Frequent Litter Box Cleaning

Keep the litter box clean and provide a litter substrate that your cat prefers. A clean litter box encourages regular urination.

Can Cats Die from Bladder Stones?

Yes, cats can potentially die from complications related to bladder stones, especially if the condition is left untreated or if it leads to urinary obstruction. This is one of the most critical and life-threatening complications. If a bladder stone or stones become lodged in the urethra, they can obstruct the flow of urine, preventing the cat from urinating. Urinary obstruction is a medical emergency and can lead to rapid deterioration of the cat's health. It can cause severe pain, electrolyte imbalances, acute kidney injury, and potentially death within a day or two if not treated promptly. To prevent these life-threatening complications, it is crucial to be vigilant about the signs and symptoms of bladder stones in cats.

Urinary obstruction is a medical emergency!  Signs of urinary obstruction include: 

• Abdominal pain

• Vomiting

• Repeated trips to the litter box

• Yowling or crying while in the litter box

• Straining to urinate without producing urine

How to Treat Bladder Stones in Cats?

The treatment of bladder stones in cats depends on several factors, including the type of stones, their size, the cat's overall health, and the presence of any complications. Treatment options may vary, but here are common approaches used to treat bladder stones in cats:

1. Dietary Management

Struvite stones: These are often treated with special prescription diets formulated to dissolve the stones. These diets are designed to create an acidic urine pH, which helps dissolve struvite crystals.
Calcium oxalate stones: Unlike struvite stones, calcium oxalate stones do not typically dissolve with diet alone. However, dietary changes may be recommended to prevent their recurrence.

The option is to attempt to dissolve the stone with a special diet. This avoids surgery and can be a good choice for some cats. However, it has three disadvantages:

• It is not successful for all types of stones. Some stones just do not respond to diet therapy.

• It is slow. It may take several weeks or a few months to dissolve a large stone, so the cat may continue to have bloody urine, straining, and repeated infections during that time. The risk of life-threatening urethral obstruction is still present while waiting for the stones to dissolve.

• Not all cats will eat the special diet. If it is not consumed exclusively, it will not work.

2. Surgery

For larger stones, or if dietary management is not appropriate, surgical removal may be necessary. The most common surgical procedure is a cystotomy, where the veterinarian makes an incision into the bladder and removes the stones.
Minimally invasive procedures, such as laser lithotripsy, can also be used to break down and remove stones without major surgery.

3. Medications

Antibiotics: If a urinary tract infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
Commonly used antibiotics for treating UTIs in cats include:

• Amoxicillin

• Clavulanate/Amoxicillin

• Enrofloxacin

• Cephalexin

• Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)

• Marbofloxacin

Pain management: Cats with bladder stones may be prescribed pain medications to alleviate discomfort.

4. Urinary Catheterization

For cats with urinary obstruction, a urinary catheter may be used to relieve the blockage and allow urine to flow.

How to Prevent Bladder Stones in Cats?

Preventing bladder stones in cats involves a combination of dietary and lifestyle adjustments:

• Encourage hydration: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times and consider wet cat food, which can increase water intake.

• Monitor litter box habits: Pay attention to changes in urination habits, as this can be an early sign of a problem.

• Contact Veterinarian: Speak to your vet before giving your cat any nutritional supplements, particularly supplements containing calcium, vitamin C, or vitamin D.

Conclusion

Bladder stones can be painful and uncomfortable for your beloved feline companion, but with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, most cats can recover and go on to lead healthy lives. By taking preventive measures and being attentive to your cat's urinary health, you can reduce the risk of bladder stones and ensure a happier and healthier life for your furry friend. Always consult with your veterinarian for guidance on the best ways to care for your cat's specific needs.