Bladder stones can be large single stones or a collection of sand-like stones.
What is Pets Bladder Stones Removal?
Pets bladder stone removal is a procedure in Singapore designed to address the presence of bladder stones in your pet’s bladder through surgical or non-surgical options. The removal of bladder stones can alleviate your pet’s discomfort and prevent health complications such as recurrent cystitis and urinary tract infections.
Bladder stones can sometimes form in your pet’s urinary bladder, even for domesticated animals such as cats and dogs. These develop as rock-like formations, known as uroliths or cystic calculi, and can be large, single stones or sand-like or gravel-sized stones. If left untreated, these can cause discomfort and other related issues in your pet.
Bladder stones in pets can cause the following symptoms:
Bloody urine
Difficulties or straining to urinate
Abdominal pain
Frequent urination, but only a small amount each time
Urinating in unusual places
Licking their urinary opening
Inability to urinate
Bladder stones can cause abdominal pain and urinary problems.
How are Pets Bladder Stones detected?
Bladder stones are typically identified through X-rays, offering a clear diagnostic picture. However, there are some bladder stones which do not show up well on x-rays, these can only be detected via an ultrasound. Occasionally, urinary crystals can be detected in urine samples, providing information on the type of bladder stone which your pet may have. During a consultation, the veterinarian will carefully palpate your pet’s abdomen to detect potential stones in the bladder. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis to tailor your pet's treatment plan.
How does Pets Bladder Stones Removal work in Singapore?
Bladder stone(s) removal involves making a ventral abdominal incision to expose and incise the bladder, followed by removal of bladder stones. Once the stones are removed, the bladder and the lower urinary tract are flushed to entire that there are no stones left.
The bladder and body wall are then sutured up. The entire surgery typically takes at least an hour, depending on the number of stones which are present.
In some cases, if bladder stone removal surgery is not an option, your vet may recommend the non-surgical route. This involves putting your pet on a prescription diet to help dissolve the stones.
Urine samples may be required for accurate diagnosis of bladder stones.
Is it necessary to remove Bladder Stones?
In most cases, bladder stones cause recurrent urinary tract infections, blood in the urine or pain during urination. Some bladder stones may even be small enough to pass into the urethra and cause urinary obstruction which is an emergency. Removal of stones hence helps to resolve the above issues.
What results are to be expected from Pets Bladder Stones Removal in Singapore?
As with any surgery, for both humans and animals, it can be a traumatic event. It is important to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during the recovery period to get them back to their usual selves. After bladder stone removal surgery, you are advised to encourage your pet to urinate as frequently as possible. For dogs, this means taking them out regularly and for cats, placing them in their litterbox often.
Generally, it can take 1 to 2 weeks before you notice your pet return to their regular urinating routine and habits. During this time, you will also need to ensure the care of the incision made to remove the bladder stones by monitoring the swelling and redness.
If your pet is being treated with a specialised diet, antibiotics are likely to be part of the treatment plan to address and prevent bacterial infections, as the dissolution of stones can release bacteria into the bladder. This dietary regimen may extend for weeks or months alongside regular vet follow-ups through urinalysis and imaging tests. Your pet will slowly resume their regular urinating routine and habits throughout the treatment.
Recovery involves encouraging your pet to use the toilet frequently.
How many treatment sessions of Bladder Stones Removal are needed in Singapore?
The number of surgery sessions for bladder stone removal varies based on your pet’s unique needs and circumstances. In some cases, surgical removal is a one-time procedure, however in other cases, multiple surgeries will be required due to recurrence of stones.
Alternatively, if your pet is put on a specific diet to dissolve bladder stones, it may take several weeks or months to see noticeable improvements in your pet’s behaviour.
Frequently asked questions
Can bladder stones be prevented?
Certain bladder stones in pets can be prevented, depending on their chemical composition. For stones caused by bacterial infection, periodic urinalyses and cultures are recommended. Early identification with regular bladder X-rays or ultrasounds may aid in detecting potential recurrences, allowing your vet to address the issue before surgery becomes necessary.
Can bladder stones in pets be treated with just medication?
Smaller stones can be dissolved with a specific diet, as advised by your vet. This treatment plan will usually include antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections from reoccurring.
How long does it take for my pet to heal from bladder stones?
Your pet can expect a full recovery within 2 to 4 weeks after bladder stone removal surgery. During this period, your pet will receive pain medication to manage pain and inflammation. Additionally, antibiotics may be prescribed.
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