Like people, dogs can develop a variety of bladder and kidney stones. Bladder stones are rock-like formations of minerals that form in the bladder and are more common than kidney stones in dogs. Bladder crystals are not stones. They’re a bit more like a snow globe of minerals within the bladder.

There are 4 main types of urinary bladder stones or crystals. The most common are Struvite stones, also known as Triple Phosphate. Others include Calcium oxalate, Urate/Uric acid, and Cystine.

Struvite stones in dogs are usually caused by urinary tract infections and a special diet isn't needed for dogs with these stones once they're either dissolved or surgically removed.

Calcium oxalate stones can't be dissolved, however, and usually have to be removed with surgery.

In some cases, bladder stones can be dissolved by feeding a prescription diet or with certain medication. This will need to be tailored to the specific type of stone that is present.

Our meals aren’t suitable to help dissolve stones, but your vet should be able to advise on a specific prescription diet for your dog to go onto.

Once your dog has recovered from treatment and is back to feeling themselves, you might want to try Butternut. Our meals are nutritionally complete and balanced and contain a high moisture content, which means they can help to keep dogs hydrated. Remember to always consult your vet before changing their diet.