What Are the Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Dogs?

Bladder stones are a common health issue in dogs but still one to take seriously. These uroliths are solid mineral formations that develop in a dog’s bladder and can range in size from a tiny grain to a more pebble-like stone.

Since bladder stones can affect dogs of all breeds and ages, it’s important to watch out for the common signs. But what are the symptoms of bladder stones in dogs? The Complete Pet Animal Hospital is here to help you determine whether your dog may have bladder stones and give you information about when to seek out veterinary assistance for your furry friend.

Frequent Urination or Urgency

Frequent urination is one of the earliest and most common signs of bladder stones. Pay attention to how your dog acts before you take them out. Do they seem to have a heightened sense of urgency to relieve themselves? Is your dog attempting to urinate more often than normal? If so, this could be a sign of bladder stones.

Bladder stones can cause irritation and blockages in the bladder, making your dog feel like they have to urinate more frequently, even if they don’t always go. That said, you should first rule out behavioral changes.

Straining To Urinate

Dysuria is a frequent symptom of bladder stones and occurs when your dog has difficulty urinating. Does your dog struggle or have visible discomfort when trying to relieve itself? They may have dysuria as a result of bladder stones blocking the normal urinary path.

Dogs in this condition may adopt unusual positions when trying to urinate or be unable to produce urine at all despite their efforts. The tension and discomfort associated with this symptom can quickly escalate, potentially leading to more severe complications like a blocked urinary tract.

Discolored or Bloody Urine

While it may be difficult to catch at first, try to track your dog’s urine color as best you can, looking for discolored or bloody urine especially. You might notice pink, red, or brownish stains where your dog urinates. Bladder stones cause irritation, inflaming the bladder lining and causing blood to mix with urine.

While discolored urine can have several causes, including urinary tract infections, it’s often a sign of potential bladder stones. That said, no matter the cause, bloody or discolored urine warrants immediate veterinary attention.

Painful Abdomen

Even when not attempting to urinate, bladder stones can cause extreme abdominal pain in dogs. Your dog may exhibit subtle signs of pain, like wincing when experiencing physical touch or a reluctance to lie in certain positions. If your normally enthusiastic furry companion becomes markedly less active or resistant to touch in specific areas, it’s possible that bladder stones are causing irritation or pressure in their bladder.

Changes in Appetite and Weight Loss

Another symptom of bladder stones in dogs is a decreased appetite or sudden weight loss. However, many conditions could lead to these symptoms, so check for the presence of other bladder stone symptoms alongside this one. Regardless of the potential of bladder stones, a severely decreased appetite coupled with sudden weight loss in your dog often requires veterinary care.

Frequent Urinary Tract Infections

Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also be a symptom of bladder stones, as the stones create an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to repeated infections. If you regularly treat your dog for UTIs yet they continue to persist, you should let your vet know so they can check for the presence of bladder stones. UTIs often line up with other symptoms, like struggling to urinate or bloody urine.

Licking Around the Genital Area

Dogs with bladder stones may lick or groom their genital area excessively due to discomfort or irritation. This behavior may be your dog’s way of trying to soothe the pain or address the irritation they’re experiencing.

While occasional licking is perfectly normal behavior, dogs with bladder stones will do it far more often than is standard. When coupled with the other symptoms discussed above, excessive licking is a good indicator that it’s time to contact your vet.

Loss of Energy or Lethargy

A general loss of energy is another possible indicator of bladder stones in dogs. If your dog normally has a lot of energy but is suddenly avoiding playtime or seems uninterested in their usual activities, it could be from pain and stress caused by bladder stones or other potential issues. Lethargy often accompanies other symptoms of bladder stones, like abdominal pain or appetite loss, providing a clearer picture of your dog’s overall health.

Vomiting or Nausea

Since bladder stones cause blockages in the urinary system, the resulting buildup of toxins in the body can lead to vomiting, nausea, or other severe issues. This symptom is especially concerning, as it can point to a severe complication needing immediate medical intervention. Aside from vomiting, your dog may experience excessive drooling or rapid swallowing. These symptoms are best assessed by your veterinarian.

Sudden Behavioral Changes

Sudden, unexplained changes in your dog’s behavior can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, including bladder stones. A once-friendly dog may become irritable or grumpy due to pain, while others may become more withdrawn, hiding in unusual places or seeking less interaction with family members. Behavioral shifts, especially if your dog is also exhibiting physical symptoms, are causes for concern and thus necessitate medical attention.

Addressing Bladder Stones Promptly Saves Lives

Spotting the symptoms of bladder stones in dogs early can make a big difference in their comfort, health, and overall prognosis. While some symptoms, such as straining to urinate or changes in appetite, might initially seem minor, they can escalate quickly if you don’t seek treatment.

If your dog has any of these symptoms, we recommend consulting your veterinarian immediately. Timely intervention and catching the issue as early as possible can save your dog from a lot of pain and prevent further issues like urinary blockages or infections.

And if you suspect your pet may be in need of urgent care, don’t wait. Contact The Complete Pet Animal Hospital today. Our staff offers emergency pet services to help your pet get the attention and treatment they need. The health of your dog is our top priority, so trust us to provide expert care when it matters most.