Bladder Stone Surgery for Pets in Springfield, PA

A cystotomy is surgery to open the bladder, most often to remove bladder stones that are causing pain, bleeding, infections or a blockage.

Stones are sent to a laboratory for analysis, which helps us recommend a diet or medication to keep new stones from forming. Most pets recover well and feel much more comfortable after surgery.

Signs Your Pet May Have Bladder Stones

Bladder stones can affect both dogs and cats. Some pets show no signs at first, and stones are found on X-rays or ultrasound during a visit for something else. If your pet is straining but producing little or no urine, come in right away, because a blockage is an emergency, especially in male cats and dogs. Other signs often look like a urinary tract infection:

Straining or taking a long time to urinate
Frequent trips outside or to the litter box
Blood in the urine
Accidents in the house or urinating outside the litter box
Licking the genital area
Crying out or seeming painful while urinating

Caring for Your Pet at Home After a Cystotomy

After surgery, your pet will need a quiet recovery with limited activity while the incision heals. A cone usually helps prevent licking. Your vet may send home pain medication and other prescribed treatments, so give them exactly as directed.

It's normal to see some blood in the urine and more frequent urination for a few days after surgery. Offer plenty of fresh water and frequent chances to go outside or use a clean litter box. Once the stone analysis comes back, your vet may recommend a prescription diet, increased water intake or follow-up urine tests and imaging to help prevent stones from returning. Call us if your pet strains without producing urine or seems to be getting worse.

Questions about Cystotomies?

Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.

Book Appointment (610) 543-5555

Cystotomies: Frequently Asked Questions

Can bladder stones be dissolved without surgery?

Some types of stones, such as struvite stones, can sometimes be dissolved with a special prescription diet. Other types, like calcium oxalate stones, can't be dissolved and usually need to be removed. Your vet will help decide which approach suits your pet.

How long does recovery take after bladder stone surgery?

Most pets start feeling better within a few days, though the incision usually needs around two weeks to heal. Your vet will give you specific instructions on activity, medications and when to come back for a recheck.

Will my pet's bladder stones come back?

Stones can recur, especially without changes to diet or water intake. Knowing the stone type from laboratory analysis helps your vet recommend a prevention plan, which may include a special diet and regular urine checks or imaging.

Why is my pet still urinating often after surgery?

It's common for pets to urinate more often, sometimes with a little blood, for several days after a cystotomy while the bladder heals. If your pet strains without passing urine or the signs don't improve, call us right away.

Ready to schedule a visit?

Book online, call us, or walk in during open hours.

Book Appointment (610) 543-5555