11/09/2025
Did you know? Horses can get bladder stones too! 🪨
Cystoliths, also known as bladder stones, may not be something most horse owners think about—but they can cause serious discomfort and health issues for your equine companion.
What Are Cystoliths?
Cystoliths are mineral stones that form in the bladder, often from concentrated urine or mineral imbalances. While not extremely common, they can lead to irritation, infections, and in some cases, urinary blockage.
⚠️ Signs to Watch For:
- Straining to urinate or frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Posturing to urinate without results
- Behaviour changes or signs of discomfort
- Dribbling urine
Cystoliths are often made of calcium carbonate and may form slowly over time. In geldings and stallions, symptoms are usually more noticeable due to their anatomy, while mares may show more subtle signs.
🧪 Diagnosis & Treatment:
We use a combination of clinical signs, re**al exams, ultrasound, and endoscopy to diagnose bladder stones. Treatment typically involves surgical removal, but in some cases, dietary and management changes can help prevent recurrence.
💧 Prevention Tips:
- Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water
- Monitor urine output and behaviour
- Review diet for excessive calcium or imbalanced minerals
If your horse is showing any urinary changes or signs of discomfort, don't wait—early intervention makes all the difference! 🐎
One of our lovely patients recently had a 6cm cystolith surgically removed at Leahurst following endoscopic diagnosis on yard by our vet Charlotte and is now recovering at home!