These terms include cystitis, crystaluria, urolith, and urethral obstructions. Cystitis is an inflammation of the urinary bladder. This condition occurs because of a bacterial or possibly a viral infection which results from the irritation caused by crystals and stones in the bladder. Cystitis may contribute to the formation of additional stones within the bladder. Crystaluria denotes the presence of crystals in the urine.
Crystals form when minerals bind together.
The bound crystals are not as soluble as the unbound form and may result in mineral deposits, much like the deposits commonly found in a teapot or coffee maker. When more and more of these crystals join together, they form a urinary stone or urolith . There are several different types of stones and each should be treated or prevented differently. It is important for your veterinarian to know what type of stone your dog has. Urethral obstruction occurs when stones or an accumulation of crystals partially or completely block the tube through which urine is excreted.