How Much Does Dog Bladder Stone Surgery Cost?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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$1,000 – $1,200

. Occasionally stones can also be present in the urethra in male dog’s and longer surgery, with some increase in costs, may be required. Further costs can include sending the stones (calculi) away for analysis to determine their make-up.

How much does bladder surgery cost in dogs?

Cost of Cystotomy in Dogs

The estimated cost for a cystotomy in dogs is

around $1,700

. The total cost of the procedure includes the cost of medications, imaging and analysis of biopsied matter.

How much does it cost to remove a stone from a dog?

Cost of Lithotripsy in Dogs

The cost of laser lithotripsy in dogs may range from

$1,300 to $2,800

, depending on the size and condition of the patient and the number of stones present, which will affect anesthesia requirements and the time needed for the procedure.

Is surgery necessary for bladder stones in dogs?


Surgery is the most common treatment for bladder stones in pets

. Particularly if your dog has a large number of bladder stones, is obstructed, or is at risk for an obstruction, surgery may be the best option. Surgery is also one of the fastest ways to remove bladder stones, which is critical in emergency situations.

Are bladder stones in dogs painful?

Also called uroliths or cystic calculi, bladder stones can range from small, sand-like grains to larger, gravel-sized stones. A pet can have several stones that range in size, but

even just a single stone can cause pain

and potentially be life-threatening.

How much does a cystoscopy cost for a dog?

Cost of Cystoscopy in Dogs


Between $50-$125

for an initial appointment with the vet. The anesthetic itself will cost between $75 and $150. The procedure itself will vary in cost depending on the experience of the vet. It could cost anywhere from $200 to $450.

How do vets remove bladder stones?

If hydropulsion does not work and diet change is not an appropriate option for the pet, surgery is needed to remove the bladder stones. This type of surgery is called a cystotomy.

The veterinarian surgically opens the abdomen and bladder to physically remove the stones

.

How long is bladder stone removal surgery in dogs?

Treatment options

Bladder stones can sometimes be treated medically through the use of special diets but they are more commonly (and more quickly) treated by surgery and direct removal of these “stones”. These are normally quite quick procedures in most cases, often taking only

30-45mins

.

Can dogs pass bladder stones naturally?

These bladder stones can range in size from sand-like grains to gravel. It can also be common for your pet to have a mixture of both small and large stones at the same time. Again,

in some cases, your dog may be able to pass the stones on their own

. Your vet determines if further treatment is required.

How often do bladder stones come back in dogs?

There are several different types of stones, which form for different reasons and require various forms of treatment and strategies for prevention. For example, “despite preventative measures,

approximately 50 percent of dogs will have recurrence of calcium oxalate stones within two years

,” says Dr.

How do vets remove bladder stones from dogs?

If your dog has bladder stones, your vet might recommend

surgical removal

, since bladder stones can cause pain, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, and in the worst case, a urinary obstruction (blockage). This procedure is called a cystotomy, and it involves opening the urinary bladder to remove the stones.

What food causes bladder stones in dogs?


Foods high in protein, particularly red meats and animal fats

, increase risk of bladder stones in dogs. Foods high in oxalates, which contribute to stone formation, such as wheat germ, sweet potatoes, beans and soy products, should also be avoided.

How successful is bladder stone surgery on dogs?

One of the concerns with surgery alone is the successful removal of all of the stones and stone debris. A technique that is beginning to gain popularity is PCCL. With PCCL, surgery is combined with cystoscopy and this increases complete stone removal rates to

96%

(from about 80% with routine surgery).

How serious is bladder stone surgery in dogs?

Possible complications include incision dehiscence, leakage, infection, stricture/granulation tissue formation, or missing a stone in the bladder during surgery.

The prognosis for a cystotomy is excellent

. However, it is important to note that depending on the type of calculi present, stone recurrence can occur.

How do you get rid of bladder stones in dogs without surgery?

This option is

ultrasonic dissolution

, a technique in which high frequency ultrasound waves are used to disrupt or break the stones into tiny particles that can then be flushed out of the bladder. It has the advantage of immediate removal of the offending stones without the need for surgery.

Can dogs throw up bladder stones?

When an obstruction does occur, a canine tends to show signs of straining to urinate in addition to systemic signs that are associated with the inability to pass the urine. These signs include the lack of appetite, lethargy, and vomiting.

Is a cystoscopy expensive?

For patients not covered by health insurance,

the cost of a cystoscopy can range from a about $350-$3,000 or more

, depending on whether the procedure is done in a doctor’s office — or at an ambulatory surgery center or hospital, where a facility fee, anesthesia and possibly a biopsy would be included in the cost.

How long does a cystoscopy take in dogs?

Cystoscopy takes approximately

20 to 30 minutes

depending on experience of the veterinary specialist performing the procedure, and the pet is typically sent home the same day.

How much does a cystoscopy hurt?

People often worry that a cystoscopy will be painful, but

it does not usually hurt

. Tell your doctor or nurse if you feel any pain during it. It can be a bit uncomfortable and you may feel like you need to pee during the procedure, but this will only last a few minutes.

How long will my dog be in pain after bladder stone surgery?

Full recovery can take 2-4 weeks; this includes healing as well as resolution of symptoms, such as straining to urinate. Your pet will need pain medication to control both the pain and inflammation for

at least one week

.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.