These stones vary from non-radiopaque to radiopaque structures of variable size and shape.
General Information
Solidified blood stones are an uncommon cause of urolithiasis. The cause often remains unknown. A solidified blood nephrolith has been reported in an anemic cat with porphyria. In some instances, solidified blood serves as a nidus for deposition of other minerals surrounding it.
Diagnostic
• Identify causes for local (e.g. trauma, infection, cancer, stones) and generalized (e.g. coagulopathies) bleeding.
Medical
• Eliminate underlying cause of bleeding.
Nutritional
• Feed canned foods or add water to achieve a specific gravity ≤1.030 for cats to minimize clot formation and retention.
Monitoring
Urinalysis every 3 months to monitor for persistent urinary hemorrhage and need for further investigation of the cause. Medical imaging every 6 to 12 months to detect recurrence. Recurrence is an indication for further evaluation and alternative treatment strategies.
Disclaimer
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.
These stones vary from non-radiopaque to radiopaque structures of variable size and shape.