Calcium oxalates are a concern in dogs because they can form bladder stones that result in serious health risks like recurrent bladder infections and urinary obstruction in males. Early diagnosis is key to treatment.
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What is Calcium Oxalate?
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Calcium oxalates won't dissolve in urine. Calcium oxalate is a compound formed by the bonding of calcium and oxalate. The precipitate created won't dissolve in urine and can form bladder stones or uroliths.
Risk Factors
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Certain breeds are at higher risk for calcium oxalate stones. Risk factors include feeding diets high in calcium or oxalate, certain diseases and corticosteroid medications. Some breeds have a higher incidence, suggesting a genetic component.
Diagnosis
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Tentative diagnosis is made with routine urinalysis, blood chemistry and radiographs or ultrasound. Final confirmation is accomplished through laboratory analysis of a stone.
Treatment
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Surgery is the usual treatment for calcium oxalate stones. Treatment depends on the size, numbers and location of stones. Sometimes veterinarians can flush them out if they are small enough. A technique called lithotripsy dissolves the stones using shock waves, but it requires general anesthesia, special equipment and special training. Most calcium oxalate stones are removed surgically.
Prevention/Solution
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Almost half of the dogs that have calcium oxalate stones once will have them again. According to the University of Minnesota, 42 percent of animals with calcium oxalate stones will have a recurrence of the problem within two years, so prevention is key. Special diets, medications like potassium citrate, and regular monitoring of urine can keep recurrences to a minimum.
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