Bladder or urinary stones that affect people can also be a problem in some dogs, cats and other mammals, including dolphins and otters. Why some animals are prone to forming stones is often unknown, but comparing diets consumed in the wild with those of animals fed by humans can sometimes provide a clue. Dr. Richard Hill, a small animal internal medicine and veterinary nutrition specialist, joins Animal Airwaves Live to discuss how nutrition and hydration can be used to reduce the risk of urinary stones from forming. Each type of stone requires different strategies to increase water intake and modify urine acidity or alkalinity and the amount of minerals and protein breakdown products in the urine. By tailoring your pet’s diet, veterinarians can often help prevent urinary stones from forming and reduce the risk of recurrence.
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