Canine Struvite / Calcium Phosphate Carbonate

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.

Both struvite and calcium phosphate carbonate form as a consequence of urinary tract infection with bacteria that produce the enzyme urease. Preventing urinary tract infection is the primary method to minimize struvite urolith recurrence. Review our complete Canine Struvite Urolith Recommendations. This urolith commonly forms in breeds that are also at risk for calcium oxalate (Shih Tzu, Bichon, miniature Schnauzer, etc.). We hypothesize that increased calcium excretion in combination with urinary tract infection are important risk factors for this compound stone. Therefore, therapy to minimize struvite should not increase the risk for calcium oxalate.

• 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 detailed struvite recommendations at z.umn.edu/K9MAP

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

Periodic urine cultures (e.g. in 2 to 4 weeks, then 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 / Calcium Phosphate Carbonate