Canine Struvite

These smooth to slightly rough, relatively large radiopaque stones are often round or angular and usually associated with a Staphylococcus or Proteus urinary tract infection.

In almost all dogs, struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate) forms as a consequence of urinary tract infection with bacteria that produce the enzyme urease. Early eradication and prevention of urinary tract infections are the best strategies to prevent infection-induced struvite uroliths.

• Urine cultures should be performed routinely (every 1 to 3 months), or sooner when urinary tract signs are observed.

• Antibiotic strategies: sporadic infections - administer culture-susceptible antibiotics for 3-7 days; relapsing infections-see full struvite recommendations at z.umn.edu/mnurolithRX

• Low phosphorus/magnesium foods that promote acidic urine (e.g. c/d multicare, others).

Periodic Urine Cultures (e.g., every 3 months) to manage recurrent infections before uroliths recur.

We advise reviewing manufacturer's literature regarding selected therapeutic foods to determine indications and contraindications. For pets with multiple health concerns,we suggest that the selection of diet should take into consideration all health needs of the pet.

Canine Struvite