Why is urine testing crucial after my dog's struvite stone surgery?

Question

My dog had struvite stones back in December. She had surgery to remove the stones. My vet wants to do a cystocentesis for a urine culture to reassess her urine. Why is this necessary? I looked at her urine under microscopy and saw crystals present. We have changed her diet and want to prevent stones from forming again. What is usually follow up to reassess stones? I was told urine cultures but I don’t want her to have cystocentesis every few months for ever. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 4 years old | 25 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

A urine culture every few months is a good way to monitor and ensure that she doesn't have a "hidden infection," and the trouble is that with many infections, the pH of the urine will increase which increases the liklihood of struvite formation. I know that cystocentesis sounds scary, but actually most dogs tolerate it very well, and most vets and vet techs are extremely competent with this technique. Repeat urine cultures are great. If you aren't comfortable with that, though, talk to your vet. A simple UA could be done to watch for building crystal numbers, (however, any UA is best obtained via cystocentesis to minimize contamination). Feed soft or canned food or add some water to dry food to increase her moisture intake; the more dilute her urine is the less likely that stones will form. I am sorry that we weren't able to get to your question sooner. Thank you for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, and good luck with Maggie!

Why is urine testing crucial after my dog's struvite stone surgery?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Share