Calcium Oxalate Bladder Stones: A Growing Threat for Dogs

In recent years, veterinarians have observed a concerning trend – an increase in the prevalence of calcium oxalate (CaOx) bladder stones in dogs. These hard mineral deposits can pose a serious threat to a dog’s health, and if left untreated, can even be fatal.

The Rise of CaOx Stones Experts believe there are several factors contributing to the rise in CaOx stones in dogs. One key driver is diet. Many commercial dog foods contain high levels of calcium and oxalate, the two main components of CaOx stones. As pet owners have shifted towards more processed and grain-heavy diets, dogs’ susceptibility to these stones has increased.

Additionally, certain breeds appear to be more predisposed to CaOx stone formation, including Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frises, and Yorkshire Terriers. Underlying medical conditions, such as Cushing’s disease or kidney disease, can also increase a dog’s risk.

The Dangers of CaOx Stones CaOx stones can cause significant discomfort and health problems for dogs. As the stones grow in size, they can obstruct the urinary tract, leading to painful urination, blood in the urine, and even complete blockage. This blockage can rapidly become life-threatening, as it prevents the dog from being able to urinate and can cause the bladder to rupture.

If a dog is unable to pass the stones naturally, emergency surgery may be required to remove them. This procedure carries its own risks, including bleeding, infection, and complications from anesthesia. Even with successful surgery, there is a high risk of the stones reforming if the underlying causes are not addressed.

Preventing and Treating CaOx Stones Preventing CaOx stones is crucial, as the consequences of an untreated blockage can be dire. Veterinarians recommend the following steps:

1. Dietary changes: Switching to a low-calcium, low-oxalate dog food can help reduce the risk of stone formation.
2. Increased water intake: Encouraging the dog to drink more water can help dilute the urine and flush out any small stones before they have a chance to grow.
3. Medication: In some cases, veterinarians may prescribe medications to inhibit stone formation or dissolve existing stones. THESE MEDS HAVE AN ARRAY OF NEGATIVE SIDE EFFECTS!
4. Regular checkups: Routine holistic/naturopathic veterinary visits and urinalysis can help detect stones early, before they become a serious problem. If you don’t have access to a holistic/naturopathic vet, you can concur with one online to make a balanced decision.

There are a few key reasons why calcium oxalate is often present in high levels in packaged dog foods:

1. Protein sources: Many commercial dog foods use animal-based protein sources like meat, poultry, and fish. These protein sources naturally contain moderate to high levels of calcium and oxalate, which can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones.
2. Mineral supplementation: Dog foods are often supplemented with additional minerals, including calcium, to meet the nutritional requirements of dogs. However, if the calcium levels are too high relative to other nutrients, it can increase the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation.
3. Grain-based carbohydrates: Many commercial dog foods are heavy in grain-based carbohydrates like corn, wheat, and rice. These ingredients can also contain moderate levels of oxalate, further contributing to the overall oxalate content of the diet.
4. Lack of species-appropriate nutrition: Domestic dogs are descended from wolves, whose natural diet is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. The high-carbohydrate, grain-heavy formulations of many commercial dog foods are not well-suited to a dog’s evolutionary nutritional needs, which can lead to various health issues like stone formation.
5. Processing methods: The high-heat processing used to manufacture many commercial dog foods can also impact the bioavailability and concentration of minerals like calcium and oxalate, potentially increasing their risk of contributing to stone formation.

To reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stones, pet owners should carefully select dog foods that are low in both calcium and oxalate, and may consider transitioning to a more species-appropriate, raw or minimally processed diet. Consulting with a holistic/naturopathic veterinary nutritionist can also help ensure a dog’s dietary needs are being met while minimizing stone-forming risk factors.

By being proactive and working closely with their veterinarian, dog owners can help prevent the devastating consequences of CaOx bladder stones and keep their furry kids healthy and happy.