Prevent, Treat a Pet's Kidney Stones

Deirdre Layne | Modified on Nov 04, 2020

Add New Post Comments

Mineral accumulation in the kidneys can result in kidney stones (renal calculi) and a condition called nephrolithiasis. These crystalline, solidified masses of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and other minerals can hang around harmlessly within the organs, but if they descend into the ureters then painful urination, blockage, and bleeding may result. Dogs and cats are only rarely afflicted with kidney stones, though when they are they are unlikely to indicate pain or any other symptoms, unless the condition is severe enough to result in blood in the urine; however the owner should watch for signs of painful urination.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) may be the root cause of a pet's kidney stones, but poor diet, excessively alkaline urine, and age-related factors are just as likely. Changes in diet, increased hydration, and some natural dietary supplements can provide a natural remedy to this condition and offer your pet relief from kidney stone pain. Unless a complete urinary blockage is present, the first step in treatment is always to increase liquid intake to increase urination and decrease the amount of time minerals can crystallize in the kidneys.

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Sort by Default New Loved

Apple Cider Vinegar

1 User Review

5 star (1)

100%

Write a review

Posted by Pyretta (Whitney, Ontario, Canada) on 12/27/2009

So glad I found this site. I have two female cats, a mother (Pumpkin age 5.5) & daughter (Dottie age 4.5) I have had a hard time with Dottie. 2.5 years ago she had blood in her urine ( she peed on the floor, beds, clothes and our backpacks) The vet & I figured she didnt drink enough water and I only fed them kibble so her kidneys were strained and she had an infection. Over a year it returned twice, treated both times with antiboitics and increases in watered down wet food (like gravy). I thought all was well. However near the end of October I discovered two large blotches of blood in my tub and my poor Dottie crying and pacing trying to use her box and only dribbling. The vet suggested to save me money to treat her again with the antibiotics and increased fluids and blood & urine work. I was so upset that I insisted on an xray, she was full of kidney & bladder stones and a nasty long term bladder infection. After a few weeks on a different anitbiotic she was like a kitten again, she had surgery to remove her stones 2 weeks ago and is doing great. I plan on buying acv as a preventive for both cats. Funny I landed on this site looking for a natural flea cure (another present from the vet clinic) and found acv as something that can help so many problems. Cant wait to try it.

Thanks for the great site.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Rachel (St. Louis, MO)
★★★★★

My parent's dog had horrible kidney stones and a urinary tract infection. He could not hold his urine sometimes and other times he could not release it. He was in a lot of pain. The vet reccomended surgery. My mom was reluctant because she believes in natural cures and the fact that there is a 40% chance of it repeating in a year. She put him on a special diet and it didn't work. After two days of putting him on the Apple Cider Vinegar, he appears to be cured! They put a little in his drinking water and a few drops in his food. It worked like a wonder drug! He is happy and energetic again and is no longer having accidents or in pain. He is back to his old self. Highly Recomended!

Replied by Maria
(Ma.)
03/18/2016

What size is your dog and how much of cider vinegar did you use?

Diatomaceous Earth

Posted by Elaine (Kansas City, Mo) on 01/20/2013

Both of my dogs have oxalate bladder stones. I want to use food grade diatomaceous earth to treat their arthritis and GI issues. Can anyone tell me if it is contraindicated because of their bladder stones? The "boys, " as we all them, are 15 and 11 years old and need lots of support and help with their legs. Thank you, Elaine

Replied by Roger
(Tampa)
06/22/2016

Did the food grade DE work for arthritis?? My lab/pit mix. 11 yo has what vets think is polyarthiritis. Looking for something that works for severe cases.

Replied by Suseeq
(Sydney, Australia)
06/23/2016

I have heard of some having good luck with coconut oil and also try shark cartiledge.

Fresh Chopped Parsley

1 User Review

5 star (1)

100%

Write a review

Posted by Pat (Tempe, Az) on 11/04/2020
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have used fresh parsley chopped over my dogs food to elleviate any kidney, urinary problems.. a day or so and it should alkaline that system and if they have stones, break them down.

Prevention

Posted by Chloe (Ashland, Kentucky) on 01/08/2012

What causes dogs to have kidney stones and how can they be prevented?

Kidney Stones
Natural Remedies