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December 10, 2025

Canine Urolithiasis: Key Causes, Stone Types & Ayurvedic Support

Abstract

Urolithiasis in dogs refers to the formation of calculi within the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. These stones develop when minerals such as calcium, oxalate, urate, cystine, xanthine, and phosphate reach supersaturation in urine due to altered metabolism, persistent infections, changes in diet, or genetic predispositions. The condition is increasingly observed in companion animals due to evolving lifestyles, dietary shifts, and metabolic diseases. This article examines the epidemiology, causes, clinical manifestations, diagnostic standards, and the role of Ayurveda and herbal management in supporting canine urinary health.

Canine Urolithiasis

Introduction

Urolithiasis is a prominent health concern in veterinary practice, primarily due to its multifactorial nature and rising prevalence in domestic dogs. Over recent decades, the incidence of urinary stones in animals has shown a noticeable increase, paralleling trends seen in humans. The rise is attributed to modifications in nutrition, reduced physical activity, and growing rates of metabolic disorders. Dogs exhibit varying types of urinary stones depending on species-specific physiology, urinary pH, infection rates, and breed predisposition. Studies indicate that the occurrence of urolithiasis in dogs ranges between 0.2% and 3%, although the incidence of particular stone compositions varies widely. Understanding the pattern of stone formation in canines not only aids veterinary practitioners but also helps researchers explore dietary and metabolic links shared between animals and humans.

Types of Stones

1. Uric Acid Stones

Uric acid stones are commonly found in certain breeds, especially Dalmatians, due to inherited defects in purine metabolism. In these dogs, the liver is unable to convert uric acid efficiently, leading to elevated uric acid levels in urine. Another contributing issue is reduced tubular reabsorption of uric acid, causing high urinary concentrations. Although Dalmatians are most at risk, similar metabolic issues can also occur in other breeds.

Potential predisposing factors include:

  • Higher purine breakdown and increased uric acid formation
  • Reduced tubular reabsorption of uric acid
  • Liver enzyme deficiencies
  • Chronic urinary infections
  • Low urine pH

Substances that promote uric acid crystal formation

2. Calcium Oxalate Stones

Excessive urinary calcium excretion is a major cause of calcium oxalate stone development in animals. Dogs consuming diets that influence calcium absorption and metabolism, or those with increased urinary acidity, are more prone. Lack of vitamin B6 and reduced activity of enzymes involved in oxalate metabolism may also contribute.

Calcium oxalate stones are commonly associated with:

  • Hypercalciuria (too much calcium in urine)
  • Acidic urine pH
  • Increased consumption of oxalate-rich foods
  • Certain metabolic conditions affecting calcium handling
  • Genetic predisposition in some breeds

3. Calcium Phosphate Stones

These stones occur less commonly, and their exact mechanism is not fully understood in animals. However, metabolic diseases such as renal tubular acidosis, hyperparathyroidism, and persistent high calcium levels in the bloodstream can promote their formation. Altered urine pH and chronic metabolic imbalance further increase the risk.

Causes of Urolithiasis In Canines

The formation of urinary stones in dogs is the end result of several interlinked factors:

  1. Mineral Supersaturation: When the concentration of stone-forming minerals exceeds the solubility limit in urine, crystallisation begins. Variations in pH significantly determine which crystals form.
  2. Infections: Chronic or recurrent UTIs, especially those involving urease-positive bacteria, alter urinary pH and promote crystal aggregation, particularly struvite stones.
  3. Dietary Composition: Food rich in minerals such as calcium, oxalate, or purines contributes to stone formation. High-protein diets may increase urinary acidity, influencing calcium oxalate generation.
  4. Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders: Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and renal tubular acidosis modify mineral handling at the renal level, promoting stone formation.
  5. Genetic Tendencies: Breeds like Dalmatians, Bulldogs, Schnauzers, and Poodles have been documented with increased susceptibility to specific stone types.
  6. Decreased Water Intake: Concentrated urine facilitates crystal nucleation and growth.
  7. Defects in Renal Reabsorption: Conditions such as cystinuria impair the kidney’s ability to reclaim amino acids, allowing accumulation and crystallisation of cystine.

Signs and Symptoms of Urolithiasis In Canines

Clinical manifestations vary depending on the location and size of the stone. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of Urolithiasis:

  • Frequent attempts to urinate
  • Passing very small amounts of urine
  • Straining during urination
  • Painful urination (dysuria)
  • Blood visible in urine (hematuria)
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Abdominal distension (in severe obstruction)
  • Collapse in advanced cases of blockage
  • Vocalisation or crying during urination
  • Restlessness or pacing due to discomfort
  • Lethargy or reduced activity
  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting (especially during urethral obstruction)
  • Signs of distress due to the inability to pass urine

Diagnosis of Urolithiasis In Canines

A structured diagnostic approach helps identify the stone type and any underlying abnormalities:

  • Clinical Examination: Assessment of bladder distension, pain, hydration, and overall health.
  • Urinalysis: Evaluation of urine pH, crystal presence, infection indicators, and specific gravity.
  • Urine Culture: Confirms bacterial infection and guides appropriate antibiotic selection.
  • Imaging:
    • Radiography for radiopaque stones (struvite, calcium oxalate)
    • Ultrasonography for radiolucent stones (urate, cystine)
    • Contrast studies to detect hidden obstructions
  • Blood Tests: Kidney function, calcium levels, liver profile, and electrolytes to assess metabolic causes.
  • Stone Analysis: Chemical examination of retrieved stones to determine precise composition and plan long-term prevention.

Management of Urolithiasis In Canines

Management of urolithiasis in dogs is tailored to the stone type, size, and severity of symptoms, combining dietary, medical, and procedural approaches. Special prescription diets help dissolve specific stones like struvite by altering mineral balance and urinary pH, while medical therapy may include antibiotics, pH-modifying agents, and drugs targeting metabolic causes. Surgical removal is required when stones obstruct urine flow, fail to dissolve, or arise from structural urinary tract issues, whereas minimally invasive options such as laser lithotripsy and endoscopic extraction offer faster recovery in equipped centres. Long-term success relies on regular monitoring through urine tests, imaging, and ongoing dietary adjustments to prevent recurrence.

Ayurvedic Overview of Urolithiasis In Canines

In Ayurveda, urinary stones in pets are understood as “Asmari,” a condition that develops from faulty digestion, accumulation of toxins, and imbalance of the doshas. When pets consume an inappropriate diet, drink insufficient water, experience urinary infections, or hold urine for long periods, their urine becomes concentrated and promotes the settling of salts. Kapha aids in binding these deposits, Vata encourages dryness and crystal buildup, and Pitta increases heat and acidity, making the stones harder and more compact. Gradually, these changes obstruct normal urine flow, leading to straining, pain, and discomfort in the abdomen or flank region. Thus, Ayurveda attributes stone formation and recurrent urinary problems in animals to poor detoxification, inadequate hydration, and improper dietary practices.

Herbal Remedies for Urolithiasis In Canines By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a globally trusted herbal manufacturing brand dedicated to preserving the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda through pure, natural, and authentic formulations. All products are made using standardised extracts of herbs, free from chemicals, preservatives, steroids, and artificial additives. The company follows strict GMP-certified production, ensuring safety, potency, and high therapeutic value. Each formulation is created under the guidance of expert Ayurveda doctors using classical principles. With worldwide delivery and a strong reputation for quality, Planet Ayurveda continues to promote holistic healing and natural wellness through its premium herbal products.

In this Article, we will discuss some effective formulations of Planet Ayurveda for the management of Urolithiasis in Canines. Let’s Start!

Product List

  1. Niere Vet Powder
  2. Odem Vet Tablet
  3. Mutrakrichantak Churna
  4. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules


Product Description

1. Niere Vet Powder

Niere Vet Powder by Planet Ayurveda helps manage urolithiasis in pets through herbal ingredients that regulate crystallisation, ease inflammation, and support kidney function. Varun (Crateva nurvala) contains lupeol and sterols that help prevent crystal retention. Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri) provides phyllanthin compounds that inhibit stone aggregation. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) offers Protodioscin that soothes the urinary tract and supports smooth urine flow. Kaasni (Cichorium intybus) contains chicoric acid that aids kidney detoxification. Shirish (Albizia lebbeck) provides bioactive flavonoids that reduce irritation. Shigru (Moringa oleifera) supplies antioxidants that promote renal repair. Apamarg (Achyranthes aspera) helps break down mineral deposits, while Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) enhances diuresis to prevent further crystal formation.

Dosage: 5 gms twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 15 gms twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

2. Odem Vet Tablet

Odem Vet Tablet by Planet Ayurveda supports urolithiasis management in animals through herbs enriched with targeted phytochemicals that help balance minerals and maintain urinary clarity. Pippali (Piper longum) and Marich (Piper nigrum) supply piperine, which improves metabolic activity and reduces deposition of stone-forming ions. Sonth (Zingiber officinale) provides gingerols and shogaols that shield kidney tissues from oxidative irritation caused by crystals. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) contains chebulagic acid and chebulinic acid, which discourage crystal adhesion and aid detoxification. Nishotha (Operculina turpethum) offers turpethin glycosides that help clear metabolic wastes associated with recurrent calculi. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) delivers protodioscin and steroidal saponins, promoting diuresis that flushes out micro-crystals and minimises stone recurrence.

Dosage: 2 Tablets twice daily (For Dogs, Cats, and Small Pets), 8 Tablets twice daily (For Horses and Big Animals) or as directed by a Physician.

3. Mutrakrichantak Churna

Mutrakrichantak Churna by Planet Ayurveda supports urolithiasis management in domestic animals through herbs packed with bioactive molecules that regulate crystal formation and enhance urinary purification. Varun (Crataeva nurvala) contains crataevine and lupeol acetate, which help soften mineral deposits and improve bladder contractility for easier stone elimination. Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri) offers nirurine and flavonoid glycosides that interfere with calcium-oxalate crystal nucleation and reduce stone growth. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) provides dioscin and tribulosin, promoting gentle diuresis that washes out urinary sediments. Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) delivers neoandrographolide and andrograpanin, which support renal detoxification and reduce irritation caused by crystal movement. Together, these phytocompounds maintain a cleaner urinary milieu and lower the chances of recurrent stone formation in animals.

Dosage: 5 gms twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 15 gms twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

4. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules

Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules by Planet Ayurveda help manage urolithiasis in domestic animals through the targeted action of bioactive molecules naturally present in Phyllanthus niruri. The herb contains phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, ellagic acid and corilagin, which interfere with crystal binding and discourage the layering of mineral salts that leads to stone enlargement. Its geraniin content stabilises urinary pH and reduces the tendency of calcium oxalate and urate crystals to cluster. Compounds like quercetin and rutin support smooth muscle relaxation, aiding the natural downward movement of stones. Brevifolin and nirurinetin offer strong renal-protective activity by reducing tissue irritation caused by crystal edges. Together, these phytochemicals help dissolve small deposits, maintain urinary clarity, and reduce the likelihood of recurrent stone formation in animals.

Dosage: 1 Capsule twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 2 Capsules twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

Conclusion

Urolithiasis in canines is a complex condition shaped by dietary patterns, metabolic imbalances, infections, and genetic factors. Rising prevalence in modern pets highlights the need for improved awareness and prevention. Accurate diagnosis, timely medical or surgical care, and appropriate dietary management form the cornerstone of veterinary treatment. Ayurveda enriches this approach by offering natural strategies that enhance urinary flow, support calculus breakdown, reduce inflammation, and improve overall renal health. The integration of both systems—veterinary science and traditional Ayurvedic wisdom—provides a comprehensive pathway for managing urinary stones in dogs while minimising recurrence and promoting long-term well-being.

FAQs

  1. What are the symptoms of Urolithiasis in dogs?
    Dogs with urolithiasis often show painful urination, frequent attempts to urinate, blood in urine, straining, licking of the genital area, and sometimes complete urinary blockage.
  2. What is the treatment of Urolithiasis in animals?
    Ayurvedic management includes Mutrala (diuretic) and Ashmari-bhedana (stone-breaking) herbs like Gokshura, Varuna, Bhumi Amla, and Pashanbheda, along with dietary regulation and increased hydration.
  3. What are the Struvite stones in Dogs?
    Struvite stones are magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals that form in alkaline urine, commonly associated with urinary tract infections caused by urease-producing bacteria.
  4. Explain Urolithiasis in Dogs?
    Urolithiasis in dogs refers to the formation of stones (uroliths) in the urinary tract, leading to irritation, obstruction, infection, and difficulty in passing urine.
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December 16, 2023

Herbal Remedies For Ticks In Dogs and Understanding and Managing

Abstract

Ticks are common in dogs because the tiny, spider-like parasites can easily adhere to their coats while out for walks. Since ticks cannot jump or fly, they wait at the tips of grass and plants for an opportunity to brush against human skin before crawling to a cosy location and consuming blood from mammals. Ticks can infest humans, sheep, deer, cats, hedgehogs, and other animals. The spring and autumn months are often when they are busiest. After a walk through dense vegetation or in the woods, it is crucial to check your dog’s fur for ticks. Ticks are generally not harmful, but they can still hurt your pet. Lyme disease, a dangerous and disabling disorder that is difficult to detect, can infect dogs. Everything you need to know about ticks on dogs is provided here.

Ticks In Dogs

INTRODUCTION

Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that can cause a variety of health problems in dogs, including Lyme disease, Q fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, etc. These fall under infectious disorders, which typically manifest as the spring and summer months approach. At this time, we must take precautions to safeguard our animals from harmful parasites. Tall grass or wooded regions are common places where ticks are found. Usually, they adhere around the skin creases on the legs, toes, and ears.

CAUSES OF TICKS IN DOGS

Ticks are parasitic, opportunistic insects. They are drawn to warmth and movement, which indicate the presence of a warm-blooded host. A dog will probably do one of the following to come into contact with a tick and maybe get bitten:

● Enter areas of tall grass, woods, or shrubs where ticks are likely to be waiting for potential hosts (this is known as “questing”).
● Throughout the warm months of the year, roam freely outside.
● Locations that deer or other wildlife commonly visit

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TICK INFESTATIONS

● Chills
● Fever
● Headaches
● Fatigue
● A rash
● Skin bumps
● Scratching
● Scabs or crusted areas on the skin
● Flu-like aches and pains in the body
● Joint swelling
● Anaemia
● Clumsiness
● Weakness
● Red patches or red circles with a bullseye form on the skin.
● Embedded brown or black ticks can be as big as marbles or as small as a millimetre.
● Paralysis

DISEASES A TICK CAN TRANSMIT TO A DOG

Although most ticks are harmless, your dog may experience pain. There are, however, some diseases that can be transmitted from dog to tick. They comprise:

● Lyme diseases
● Tick paralysis
● Rocky Mountain spotted fever
● Anaplasmosis
● Anaemia

DIAGNOSIS

Visit your vet for a checkup and diagnostic tests if you see a red bump, weeping sore, or bullseye-shaped rash where a tick bit your dog. To identify the presence of antibodies that signify the presence of Lyme, ehrlichiosis, or other bacterial tick-borne infections, your veterinarian may run a blood panel and a specialised test known as the 4DX. Other revealing symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, and joint swelling, may be found during a medical examination. Additional tests could be carried out to look for kidney damage, a dangerous side effect of systemic infection.

TREATMENT

If you reside in an area where ticks are prevalent, it is crucial to frequently examine your pet. An allopathic doctor can advise on these typical therapeutic goals.

● Antibiotics
● Anti-inflammatory medications
● Topical or oral treatments
● Removal of Ticks

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW

The ancient healing knowledge of Ayurveda is an excellent path to follow for both humans and dogs if you’re on the path to natural health and wellness. The medicines and techniques of Ayurveda, the world’s oldest medicinal system, have been utilised successfully for thousands of years. Acharya Charak specifies the total number of twenty Krimi, which are classified into two major groups, in Ayurveda: Bahya or Malaja Krimi (External) and Abhayantara Krimi (Internal). According to Acharya Charak, Yuka and Pipilika are Bhaya Krimi and Shleshmaja (7) , Purishaja (5), Raktaja (6) krimi are Abhayantara Krimi. Ticks might be categorised as part of Krimi Roga’s Bahya category. Their presence is mentioned in the Charaka Samhita about hair, eyelashes, and any other portion of the body or clothing. The habitat of external krimi’s (Malaja) is similarly described in other books like Ashtanga Hridaya. Acharya Charaka mentioned Trividh Chikitsa for Krimi Roga in Vimana sthana in Vyadhitarupiyaadhyaya

1. Apakarsana Chikitsa

Krimi extraction is defined as having two methods.
● Hasta/Yantra (manual extraction): Krimi can be manually retrieved utilising Yantra, such as sandamsha (surgical instrument), etc.
● Bhesaja Apakarshana (therapeutic extraction): To force the extraction of Krimi, Shodhana therapies may be used alone or in conjunction with the extraction process. Virechana, Asthapana basti, and Shiro Virechana are three possible Shodhana therapies.

2. Prakriti Vighata Chikitsa

When krimighana medications with the attributes of katu, tikta, kashaya, kshara, and usna are used, the environment becomes unfavourable, which is the opposite of what is needed for krimi to flourish. Thus, the treatment prevents krimi from growing. The Prakruti Vighata also offers recommendations for rules on what to eat, drink, wash, and maintain a hygienic environment. The krimighana medications that can be utilised in Prakriti Vighata Chikitsa, including Gandira, Vidanga, and Marich, as well as Danti, Dravanti, tilvaka, and udallaka, also have advantageous effects.

3. Nidana Parivarjana Chikitsa

The causal elements must be addressed in this strategy. Virudha-ahara should be avoided, hygienic circumstances should be maintained, and sweet and sour food should not be consumed, according to the recommended therapy. Instead of treating patients, therapy places more of an emphasis on preventive measures.

AYURVEDIC HERBS THAT CAN SUPPORT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF YOUR PET

● Vidanga : It is one of the powerful anti-parasitic herbs of Ayurveda. It is also called False black pepper because it mimics pepper in appearance. Its taste is Astringent (Kashaya) and Pungent (katu). It has a special Prabhava (effect)– Krimighana (relieves worm infestations). It has a Rejuvenating action- It promotes general wellness and increases bodily energy. विडड्गं कृमिघ्नानां।। (च. सू. २५/४०) – Vidanga is the most effective herb for worm infestations.

● Turmeric : Turmeric’s primary component, curcumin, combats free radicals, which are known to cause several abnormalities. Additionally, it has been demonstrated to support a strong immunological response and to have antioxidant properties. Fats, which make up a significant portion of a healthy pet’s diet, are broken down by turmeric to assist good digestion.

● Neem : Neem is frequently used to treat many kinds of skin irritations. Neem is frequently employed in traditional Ayurveda to cleanse the blood, support healthy skin, advance oral health, and support the good operation of the heart and liver. Neem is very balanced for Pitta dosha due to its cooling impact. Pests like fleas and ticks can be repelled whether applied topically or taken orally. The internal environment in your pet’s stomach may also benefit from being kept healthy and balanced. Neem powder can be beneficial for dogs when used in moderation.

● Ginger : With its bitter and astringent properties, ginger may help drain out extra moisture in the respiratory system in addition to alleviating joint pain and promoting easy mobility. Ginger has a reputation for energising and motivating both animals and people who may be feeling drained, heavy, or introverted. Those who are experiencing a kapha imbalance, in other words.

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR TICKS IN DOGS BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP-certified company that produces high-quality Ayurvedic products. All the products are free from preservatives, side effects, chemical substances, etc. MD Ayurveda experts who oversee the quality and characteristics of the herbs and plants used in medicine preparation run our business. The products described below are excellent for treating ticks in dogs and improving their overall health and strength.

1. NEEM OIL AND TEA TREE OIL
2. GANDHAK RASAYAN
3. DERMO PLAN SYRUP
4. NEEM LEAVES

PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION

1. Neem Oil And Tea Tree Oil

Neem oil is made up of Neem (Azadirachta indica), and Terpinen-4-ol, terpinene, limonene, and many more are the primary active components of tea tree oil. Neem is excellent for preserving skin health since it balances the inflamed dosha and serves as an insect repellent. Tea tree oil has anti-microbial and bactericidal properties. One of the essential oils for dog scratching is tea tree oil. In addition, tea tree oil for dogs has the following advantages: Enhances damaged and dry skin, treats and prevents fleas and scabies, and calms inflamed or itchy dog skin.

Application : Apply a mixture of the two to the affected region.

2. Gandhak Rasayan

This is a single herbal formulation that is made up of Shuddh Gandhak (purified sulphur). Both people and dogs can benefit from its use in the treatment of skin conditions and infections. It is used as a rejuvenator, which promotes positive health and immunity. In addition to being antiviral, it is also antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antipruritic. It is an excellent blood purifier (Rakta Shodhaka).

Dosage : 4 tablets with feed, two times a day.

3. Dermo Plan Syrup

This is a polyherbal syrup that is made up of Shahtara (Fumaria officinalis), Khadir (Areca catechu), Shobhanjan (Moringa oleifera), Chopchini (Smilax china), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus), and many more. It is helpful for a variety of issues brought on by blood impurities. Additionally, this syrup stimulates the latent liver and aids in blood purification. The skin becomes healthier, shinier, smoother, and less prone to infections and disorders as a result of blood purification. This syrup supports the body from the inside out, acting as a natural tonic for the skin.

Dosage : 1 teaspoon, two times a day.

4. Neem Leaves Decoction

This is a fantastic removal method that also serves as a tick repellent. Neem is a microbicidal substance used to detoxify and clean the skin. Neem leaf mixture (no more than 50 leaves in two litres of water) should be boiled until the water becomes green and the leaves soften and change colour. Store the filtrate in bottles. To get rid of whiteheads, acne, and skin conditions, add around 100 ml to the bath.
How to use : Heat up the leaves in water, then utilise that water for the shower.

Contact Planet Ayurveda Support Team to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or Call at 0172-521-4040 (India), +91-172-521-4040 (Outside India) or Whatsapp at (+91) 842-749-4030.

CONCLUSION

Not every soul partner is a person. Pets are our best friends and our four-legged soul mates, with whom we form unbreakable ties. Many times, the bonds people develop with their pets rank among their strongest and most fulfilling. It is upsetting when our cherished pet friends become tick-infested and endure needless tedium and suffering. Both humans and dogs need a balanced diet to support good health and a long, disease-free life. So, the health of animals should never be taken lightly, hence they should be checked regularly.

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