ACVIM Small Animal Consensus Recommendations on the Treatment and Prevention of Uroliths in Dogs and Cats

In an age of advancing endoscopic and lithotripsy technologies, the management of urolithiasis poses a unique opportunity to advance compassionate veterinary care, not only for patients with urolithiasis but for those with other urinary diseases as well. The following are consensus-derived, research and experience-supported, patient-centered recommendations for the treatment and prevention of uroliths in dogs and cats utilizing contemporary strategies. Ultimately, we hope that these recommendations will serve as a foundation for ongoing and future clinical research and inspiration for innovative problem solving.

For the past century, treatment for urolithiasis in dogs and cats has been the province of the surgeon, but with the advent of new technologies, urolith management is evolving. Several minimally invasive procedures are performed daily in veterinary hospitals around the world. Not all management strategies are suitable for every patient or every situation. The challenge for clinicians is to move beyond traditional surgical care and consider less invasive alternatives. For clients to be properly educated and informed of their options, clinicians must understand these options and their associated indications and risks.

 

Click here to be directed to the full study in the Journal of veterinary Internal Medicine.