My dog had bladder stones. What are mineralized kidneys and what can I do?

Question

My dog Sam just had bladders stones surgically removed. The vet said his kidneys are mineralized, and that she suspects Atypical Cushings disease. He is 10 years old. What does mineralized kidneys mean and what can I do? Thank you! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 25 lbs

Rodrigo Roca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello, it is hard to interpret what your veterinarian meant by mineralized kidneys without reviewing Sam's medical records. However, things that can cause mineral debris in the kidney such as kidney stones can be associated with diet content and the pH of the urine (either too acidic or too alkaline). Other less common causes include abnormalities with the regulation of calcium and phosphorus such as with hyperparathyroidism. In a 10 year old dog, paraneoplastic hypercalcemia due to anal gland cancer or lymphoma can also be possible. Based on his bladder stones, I would assume that whatever may have caused stone formation in his bladder may also be causing the changes you are seeing in his kidneys. Cushings disease commonly involves changes in the adrenal glands and the excess production of cortisol hormone. It can cause a secondary increase in calcium, however you typically do not see en elevated calcium alone without an increased in cortisol levels. Ultimately, it will be difficult to assess what may be causing Sam's kidney changes without the being able to review his records. I would recommend consulting with your veterinarian again to clarify his previous assessment to you, or even getting a second opinion from a internist at a specialty hospital. Hope this helps and best of luck.

My dog had bladder stones. What are mineralized kidneys and what can I do?

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