Struvite Crystals In Dogs Urine

However according to veterinarians at the marva vista animal clinic in los angeles struvite crystals require an alkaline ph in order to form.

Struvite crystals in dogs urine.

The crystals composed of magnesium ammonium and phosphate become a problem only if your dog contracts a urinary tract infection. Struvite crystals are the first of the two main types of crystals seen in dog s urine. The cause of crystals in cats and dogs depend on the kind of crystal your veterinarian finds. Incontinence in a dog caused by crystals in urine.

Acute dog urinary incontinence concern can be brought on by struvite crystals forming in the dogs urine. Many dogs have struvite crystals in their urine which does not necessarily indicate a medical condition. However crystals can form blockages and lead to stones. Struvite crystals can form in your dog s bladder or kidneys after he suffers a urinary tract infection caused by one of two types of bacteria.

Struvite crystals in dog urine. In general crystals are found when an abundance of certain compounds are excreted by the kidneys. Urine crystals and stones aren t always related. They are comprised of magnesium ammonium phosphate and are more likely to appear when the urine gets too alkaline.

They typically form because of urinary changes that happen when bladder infections occur. Struvite is a natural constituent of dog s urine. They cannot form in acidic urine. Struvite crystals irritate the urinary tract and trigger frequent urination.

Struvite crystals are formed in the alkaline urine thus drinking more water will help his urine get more diluted and acidic. If left untreated struvite crystals can form stones that can make it impossible for your dog to urinate which can become a life threatening condition. For instance struvite crystals are managed by making the urine more acidic and calcium oxalate crystals are managed by making the urine more alkaline. Certain kinds of crystals in cat urine or dog urine may eventually lead to stone formation.

It remains dissolved and not precipitate for as long as. In some cases this requires adjusting the ph of your dog s urine. The veterinarian will determine if your dog needs medical treatment. Crystals can become bladder stones and a chronic issue if not dealt with.

If the urine becomes exceptionally concentrated or if it becomes alkaline opposite to acidic struvite crystals will precipitate or fall out of solution. Struvite stones are one of the most common bladder stones in dogs and cats.