OTIS AND HIS CYSTOTOMY

This is Otis after his surgery, cuddling his favourite kicker toy!

Otis, a beloved cat, recently came to our clinic presenting with an unusual increase in vomiting. His owner was understandably concerned, and our team quickly went to work to determine the cause. During a physical examination, Dr. Suzanne noted that one of Otis' kidneys was larger than the other, which immediately raised a red flag for potential kidney issues.

Given this asymmetry, Dr. Suzanne suspected a few possible causes: a dietary intolerance or perhaps a renal abnormality that could be contributing to Otis' nausea. To gain a clearer picture, Dr. Suzanne recommended blood tests to assess the presence of any underlying metabolic diseases. The results indicated some elevations in Otis' renal parameters, which suggested that kidney function could be compromised.

With this information in hand, Dr. Suzanne also recommended an ultrasound to investigate the potential causes of the renal asymmetry. The imaging revealed changes consistent with renal disease, as well as bladder stones. Following this diagnosis, we immediately began treatment to manage his condition and help him feel better.

The bladder stones were large enough that they weren’t causing an immediate risk of urinary tract blockage. However, Otis was suffering from a persistent urinary tract infection (UTI), likely exacerbated by the presence of the stones. Otis' owners were understandably concerned and decided to pursue surgical intervention to remove the stones.

Before proceeding, Dr. Suzanne recommended another round of blood tests to assess Otis' kidney function in more detail. The results confirmed that Otis had stage 2 renal disease, prompting us to carefully measure his blood pressure to ensure that he was stable enough to undergo surgery. Thankfully, Otis' blood pressure was excellent, and his kidneys received fluid support prior to surgery to help optimize his condition.

The surgery was performed successfully, with Dr. Dave carefully removing three small uroliths from Otis' bladder. We are thrilled to report that Otis is now recovering well and on the road to better health. His owners are relieved to see him feeling better, and we are grateful to have been part of his journey to recovery.

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Bladder stones, or uroliths, are hard mineral formations that can develop in the urinary bladder of cats and dogs.

These stones form when certain minerals in the urine become concentrated, causing them to crystallize.

While some pets may show no symptoms, bladder stones can lead to significant health issues, especially if they block the urinary tract or cause frequent infections.

Common signs of bladder stones in pets include frequent urination, blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, or signs of pain while urinating. In more severe cases, the stones can obstruct the urethra, leading to a urinary blockage, which is a life-threatening emergency. Pets with bladder stones are also prone to recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can further complicate their condition.

The treatment for bladder stones depends on the type, size, and location of the stones. In some cases, diet changes or medications may help dissolve the stones, but this is not always effective. If the stones are too large or are causing significant discomfort or blockages, surgery may be required to remove them, a procedure known as cystotomy.

Prevention is key and ensuring that pets stay hydrated and have a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of stone

formation. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and effective management of bladder stones, which can lead to better long-term health for your pet.

If you notice any symptoms or suspect your pet may have bladder stones, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your pet's quality of life.