Urinary crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats can be painful and may lead to serious urinary complications. The most common types include struvite and calcium oxalate, but pets can also develop urate, cystine, and other stones. Each type has different causes and requires a specific approach to treatment and prevention. Understanding the role of nutrition, hydration, urinary pH, and underlying health conditions is essential. A holistic approach focuses on identifying contributing factors, supporting urinary tract health, and helping prevent recurrence rather than simply managing symptoms.
Dogs and cats need moisture in their diet. A raw or gently cooked diet is best. We do not recommend prescription diets.
Provide bone broth or raw fermented goats milk (5% off with URL) to provide extra hydration.
Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol is fantastic for dogs and cats with urinary crystals and stones. Many people we have worked with have had great experience with it.
Urinary crystals and stones, also known as uroliths or calculi, can develop when minerals and other substances in the urine become concentrated and form solid deposits. Crystals do not always lead to stones, and some may appear in urine samples without causing disease. However, bladder stones can cause inflammation, pain, infections, and potentially life-threatening urinary blockages.
The type of crystal or stone matters. Different types have different causes, nutritional considerations, and treatment options. What helps one type may actually worsen another.
1. Struvite (Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate)
Common in both dogs and cats.
Frequently associated with bacterial urinary tract infections in dogs.
Can also develop without infection, particularly in cats.
Often associated with alkaline urine, although urine pH alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.
Many struvite stones can be dissolved using appropriate veterinary dietary treatment, with antibiotics when an infection is present.
2. Calcium Oxalate
Common in dogs and cats, particularly certain breeds and older pets.
Associated with several factors, including urine concentration, calcium metabolism, genetics, and urinary chemistry.
Cannot be dissolved through dietary changes or supplements.
Prevention focuses on hydration, appropriate mineral balance, and individualized nutritional management.
3. Urate Stones
More common in certain breeds, including Dalmatians, because of inherited differences in uric acid metabolism.
Can also occur in pets with liver disorders, including portosystemic shunts.
May require a diet lower in purines rather than simply restricting all animal protein.
Some urate stones can dissolve with appropriate veterinary treatment.
Hydration and management of underlying liver conditions are especially important.
4. Cystine Stones
Usually associated with an inherited condition called cystinuria, in which the kidneys release excessive cystine into the urine.
More common in certain dog breeds and often affects males.
Can recur even after successful removal.
Nutritional management, increased water intake, and sometimes urinary alkalinization or medication may help.
Neutering may reduce recurrence in certain androgen-dependent cases.
5. Less Common Stones
Other types include silica, calcium phosphate, and xanthine stones. These have different underlying causes and require individualized treatment and prevention.
Frequent urination or repeated attempts to urinate
Blood in the urine
Straining, crying, or discomfort while urinating
Urinating in unusual places
Excessive licking of the genital area
Passing small amounts of urine
Lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite
URGENT: A dog or cat that cannot urinate, or repeatedly strains with little or no urine produced, needs immediate emergency veterinary care. Urinary obstruction can quickly become life-threatening, particularly in male cats.
From a holistic perspective, it’s important to look beyond the stones themselves and investigate factors that may contribute to their formation or recurrence.
These may include:
Inadequate hydration: Concentrated urine can increase the risk of certain crystals and stones.
Nutrition: Dietary mineral content, protein composition, and moisture levels can influence urinary chemistry.
Urinary pH: Excessively acidic or alkaline urine may favor certain stone types.
Urinary tract infections: Particularly important with infection-associated struvite stones in dogs.
Genetics: Some breeds are predisposed to specific stone types.
Metabolic or liver disorders: These can contribute to certain stones, particularly urate stones.
Stress and urinary health: Stress can contribute to feline lower urinary tract disease, although it is not an established direct cause of most urinary stones.
1. Prioritize Hydration
Adequate hydration is one of the most important ways to support urinary tract health.
Provide fresh, clean water throughout the day.
Consider pet water fountains, particularly for cats.
Add water to meals to increase moisture intake.
Consider moisture-rich, nutritionally balanced raw, gently cooked, or canned diets when appropriate for the specific stone type.
Small amounts of plain, unsalted bone broth may encourage drinking, provided it contains no onions, garlic, or inappropriate added minerals.
2. Optimize Nutrition
Nutrition plays a major role in managing urinary stone risk, but there is no single diet suitable for every stone type.
Focus on adequate dietary moisture and complete, balanced nutrition.
Evaluate mineral content, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and sodium, according to the diagnosed stone type.
Consider fresh-food options when they can meet the pet’s specific nutritional requirements.
Learn more about raw feeding and dry kibble.
The goal is to support urinary health through adequate hydration, appropriate nutrition, and addressing underlying contributing factors rather than relying on a single dietary approach.
3. Understand Urinary pH
Urinary pH influences the formation of certain crystals and stones, but deliberately changing pH without knowing the stone type can be harmful.
Struvite stones are generally favored by alkaline urine.
Calcium oxalate stone risk involves multiple factors and cannot be managed through pH alone.
Urate and cystine stones may require different urinary pH strategies.
Avoid using urine acidifiers or alkalinizers without veterinary guidance.
4. Natural Urinary Tract Support
Certain herbs and supplements are traditionally used to support urinary comfort, although evidence that they dissolve or prevent urinary stones in dogs and cats is limited.
Options sometimes considered include:
Marshmallow root and corn silk for traditional soothing support.
Cranberry products for selected urinary concerns, although they have not been proven to dissolve stones.
These products should be assessed individually for their ingredients, safety, and suitability. They are not substitutes for diagnosing or treating stones, infections, or urinary obstructions.
D-mannose, homeopathic remedies, and chanca piedra do not have reliable clinical evidence demonstrating that they dissolve urinary stones in dogs or cats. Potassium citrate has specific veterinary uses but should only be given when indicated because it alters urinary chemistry.
5. Manage Stress
Reducing stress and anxiety is particularly important for cats with feline idiopathic cystitis and other stress-sensitive urinary conditions.
Maintain predictable feeding and household routines.
Provide quiet resting areas and environmental enrichment.
Ensure cats have adequate, clean litter boxes.
Encourage appropriate play and exercise.
Consider calming support when needed.
Stress and anxiety management supports overall urinary health but does not replace stone-specific treatment.
6. Regular Monitoring
Schedule follow-up urinalysis based on your pet’s history.
Request urine cultures when infection is suspected. You can also get them done by Affordable Pet Labs in the comfort of your home. (15% coupon: savingpets).
Use X-rays or ultrasound to identify and monitor stones.
Consider laboratory stone analysis whenever a stone is passed or removed.
Monitor urine concentration and pH as part of a broader veterinary assessment.
At-home urine test strips may provide supplemental information, but they cannot identify stone composition or reliably determine whether stones are present.
Successful prevention starts with identifying the stone type. Hydration, appropriate nutrition, regular monitoring, and addressing underlying health conditions are essential components of a holistic urinary health plan.
Not all urinary stones respond to the same dietary approach. Understanding the type of stone your dog or cat has is essential when choosing foods, supplements, and supportive therapies. The goal is to improve hydration, support healthy urinary chemistry, address underlying conditions, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Struvite stones are composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate. In dogs, they are frequently associated with bacterial urinary tract infections. In cats, they often develop without an infection.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Prioritize adequate hydration through moisture-rich meals.
Provide a complete, balanced diet with appropriate magnesium and phosphorus levels.
Avoid unnecessary mineral supplementation.
Identify and address urinary tract infections, particularly in dogs.
Monitor urinary pH and concentration through veterinary testing or Affordable Pet Labs (15% coupon: savingpets).
Infection-associated struvite stones require appropriate treatment of the infection. Some struvite stones can be dissolved through carefully controlled dietary and medical treatment.
Calcium oxalate stones are common in both dogs and cats and cannot be dissolved through dietary changes, herbs, or supplements.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Encourage water intake to produce more dilute urine.
Provide balanced calcium intake rather than severely restricting calcium.
Avoid excessive vitamin C and unnecessary calcium or vitamin D supplementation.
Review dietary sodium, protein, and mineral content with a veterinary nutritionist.
Consider potassium citrate only when indicated and prescribed by a veterinarian.
Some pets have underlying metabolic conditions that increase their risk of calcium oxalate stones. Identifying these conditions can help reduce recurrence.
Urate stones are particularly important in Dalmatians and other dogs with inherited differences in uric acid metabolism. They can also develop in pets with certain liver disorders.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Emphasize adequate hydration.
Consider a carefully formulated, lower-purine diet.
Limit high-purine ingredients such as organ meats, particularly liver and kidney, and certain fish.
Select protein sources based on purine content and the pet’s individual nutritional requirements.
Egg whites — One of the best low-purine protein sources. They provide high-quality protein with very little purine.
Whole eggs — Generally low in purines, although the yolks add phosphorus and fat.
Cottage cheese — Generally low in purines and provides protein, but sodium and fat content should be considered.
Plain Greek yogurt — A lower-purine protein option, provided the dog tolerates dairy.
Ricotta cheese — Generally low in purines, although protein, fat, and mineral levels vary.
Tofu — A plant-based protein option that may be suitable in a professionally balanced diet.
These contain more purines than eggs and dairy, so they aren’t truly low-purine foods:
Skinless chicken breast
Turkey breast
Lean pork
Lean beef
The amount and preparation matter. Chicken and turkey are not automatically low-purine choices simply because they’re lean.
Investigate underlying liver abnormalities when appropriate.
Some urate stones can be medically dissolved, depending on their composition and the pet’s health. Dietary changes should be individualized to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
Cystine stones develop when excessive cystine is excreted into the urine, usually because of an inherited kidney transport abnormality called cystinuria.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Increase water intake to dilute the urine.
Provide an appropriately formulated diet with controlled protein and sodium levels.
Avoid excessive protein supplementation.
Monitor urinary pH under veterinary guidance.
Discuss whether the condition may be androgen-dependent, since neutering can reduce recurrence in certain affected male dogs.
Cystine stones can recur, making ongoing monitoring particularly important.
Silica stones: May be associated with dietary and environmental factors, although the causes are not fully understood.
Calcium phosphate stones: Can be associated with urinary chemistry abnormalities and certain metabolic disorders.
Xanthine stones: May occur because of inherited metabolic abnormalities or as a complication of medications such as allopurinol.
These less common stones require individualized nutritional and medical management.
A fresh, moisture-rich diet can be part of a holistic urinary health plan, but it must be nutritionally complete and appropriate for the specific stone type.
There is no single food, supplement, herb, or urinary pH target that safely prevents every type of urinary stone.
Whenever possible, request laboratory analysis of a passed or removed stone. This provides valuable information for developing an individualized prevention strategy.
A holistic approach to urinary health goes beyond diet alone. Certain herbs and supplements may provide complementary support for urinary comfort, hydration, and overall urinary tract wellness.
However, not every supplement is appropriate for every type of urinary crystal or stone. Understanding the underlying condition is essential before introducing natural remedies.
One product we’ve received particularly encouraging feedback about in our Saving Pets One Pet @ A Time community is Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol.
Members have shared positive experiences incorporating this protocol into their pets’ urinary wellness routines.
As with any holistic supplement, results may vary depending on the type of urinary concern, diet, hydration, and underlying health conditions. These experiences are encouraging, but they do not establish that the protocol dissolves or prevents urinary stones.
Learn More About Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a soothing plant compound traditionally used to support irritated mucous membranes.
Traditionally used for urinary tract comfort.
May provide soothing support for irritated tissues.
Has not been clinically proven to dissolve urinary stones in dogs or cats.
Marshmallow root may interfere with the absorption of oral medications, so administration timing should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Corn silk has a long history of traditional use for urinary wellness.
Traditionally used to support urinary tract comfort.
Contains plant compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Veterinary clinical evidence for preventing or treating urinary stones remains limited.
Use cautiously in pets with kidney disease, dehydration, or those receiving diuretics.
Cranberry contains compounds that may interfere with the attachment of certain bacteria to urinary tract tissues.
Sometimes used as complementary support for recurrent urinary tract concerns.
Evidence for preventing bacterial urinary infections in dogs and cats is limited.
Does not reliably dissolve urinary crystals or stones.
Cranberry products should not be used to deliberately acidify urine, particularly in pets prone to calcium oxalate stones.
We recommend Project Sudz Berry Boost to help keep the digestive tract healthy (10% coupon: savingpets).
D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar sometimes used to support urinary tract health.
Studied primarily for its potential role in reducing bacterial attachment, particularly with certain E. coli infections.
Evidence of benefit in dogs and cats is insufficient.
Does not dissolve struvite or other urinary stones.
Does not replace appropriate treatment of a confirmed urinary tract infection.
Potassium citrate is sometimes prescribed to help manage urinary chemistry, particularly in pets prone to calcium oxalate or cystine stones.
It can increase urinary citrate and raise urine pH, but it is not appropriate for every stone type.
Potassium citrate should only be used under veterinary guidance, especially in pets with kidney disease or those taking medications that affect potassium levels.
Chanca piedra, sometimes called stone breaker, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for urinary and kidney concerns.
Although preliminary research has explored its effects on stone formation, reliable veterinary evidence demonstrating that it dissolves bladder stones in dogs or cats is lacking.
It should not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
Before using supplements, consider:
The type of crystal or stone diagnosed
Urinary pH and concentration
Kidney and liver function
Whether a bacterial infection is present
Current medications and supplements
The risk of urinary obstruction
Remember: Natural support works best as part of an individualized plan that includes appropriate nutrition, hydration, monitoring, and veterinary care when needed.
The Easy Peesy Protocol helps support the body’s defence against recurring bladder and urinary infections. Supports bladder health and the creation of an environment that discourages crystal formation
Proper hydration is one of the most important factors in supporting urinary tract health and helping reduce the risk of recurring crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats.
When pets don’t consume enough water, their urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood that certain minerals and other substances will form crystals or stones. Increasing moisture intake helps dilute the urine and encourages more frequent urination, reducing the time these substances remain in the bladder.
1. Feed Moisture-Rich Foods
Consider nutritionally balanced raw, gently cooked, or canned foods appropriate for your pet’s stone type.
Add water to meals to increase moisture intake.
For pets eating dry food, rehydrating meals can help increase total water consumption.
2. Encourage More Drinking
Provide several water bowls throughout the home.
Try a pet water fountain, particularly for cats.
Use wide, shallow bowls for cats that dislike their whiskers touching the sides.
Keep water fresh and bowls clean.
Experiment with bowl materials and locations to discover your pet’s preferences.
3. Make Water More Appealing
Add small amounts of plain, unsalted bone broth without onions, garlic, or added seasonings.
Offer water flavored with a small amount of appropriate, unsalted meat cooking liquid.
Consider offering ice cubes or frozen diluted bone broth as an occasional treat.
For pets with urate stones, avoid concentrated meat broths and organ-based broths that may contain significant amounts of purines.
4. Support Healthy Urination Habits
Give dogs frequent opportunities to urinate throughout the day.
Keep cat litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
Provide multiple litter boxes in multi-cat households.
Encourage regular movement, play, and appropriate exercise.
Struvite: Diluting urine can help reduce the concentration of minerals involved in struvite formation.
Calcium Oxalate: Increasing urine volume is an important strategy for reducing recurrence risk.
Urate: Dilute urine helps reduce urate concentration and may lower the likelihood of stone formation.
Cystine: Increasing water intake is particularly important because concentrated urine increases the risk of cystine precipitation.
Urine specific gravity (USG), measured during a veterinary urinalysis, helps assess urine concentration.
Pets with recurring urinary stones may benefit from individualized urine concentration targets and regular monitoring.
Important: Hydration is supportive, but it cannot reliably dissolve existing stones or relieve a urinary obstruction. Pets with heart disease, kidney disease, or other conditions requiring fluid management need an individualized hydration plan.
Urinary pH measures how acidic or alkaline your pet’s urine is. It plays an important role in urinary health because certain crystals and stones are more likely to form under specific pH conditions.
One of the biggest mistakes pet parents can make is trying to acidify or alkalinize their pet’s urine without knowing which type of crystal or stone is present. What helps one type may actually increase the risk of another.
A holistic approach focuses on proper nutrition, hydration, identifying underlying health conditions, and maintaining urinary chemistry appropriate for the individual pet.
Struvite Crystals and Stones
Struvite crystals are more likely to form in alkaline urine.
In dogs, bacterial urinary tract infections can raise urinary pH and contribute to struvite formation.
Managing infections, hydration, and dietary mineral balance is important.
Urine should not be deliberately acidified without veterinary guidance.
Calcium Oxalate Stones
Calcium oxalate stones can form across a range of urinary pH values.
Excessive urinary acidification may increase the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation.
Maintaining adequate hydration and appropriate mineral balance is particularly important.
Potassium citrate may be recommended for certain pets, depending on their urinary chemistry and medical history.
Urate Stones
Urate stones are more likely to form in acidic urine.
Some affected pets benefit from carefully controlled urinary alkalinization.
Lower-purine nutrition may be important, particularly for dogs with inherited urate metabolism abnormalities.
Underlying liver conditions should be investigated when appropriate.
Cystine Stones
Cystine is less soluble in acidic urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.
Carefully monitored urinary alkalinization may help reduce recurrence.
Adequate hydration and individualized protein and sodium management are important.
Some dogs require additional medical treatment because nutrition alone may not adequately control cystinuria.
Yes. Diet can influence urinary pH, but the effect depends on the overall nutrient composition, not simply whether a food is raw, cooked, or processed, however raw and gently cooked offers more moisture.
Factors that may influence urinary pH include:
Protein sources and amino acid composition
Dietary mineral balance
Certain supplements and medications
Underlying metabolic conditions
Fresh, moisture-rich nutrition can support urinary health, but it does not automatically produce the ideal urinary pH for every stone type.
Avoid using apple cider vinegar, cranberry, vitamin C, or other acidifying substances specifically to change urinary pH without knowing the stone type and monitoring the response.
Urinary pH can change throughout the day depending on meals, medications, and other factors.
For pets with recurring crystals or stones:
Request a complete veterinary urinalysis, including pH and urine specific gravity.
Consider a urine culture when infection is suspected. Affordable Pet Labs can come to your home to do it. (15% coupon: savingpets).
Use at-home urine pH strips only as an additional monitoring tool.
Record results consistently, including the time of day and relationship to meals.
Review changes with your veterinarian before adjusting diet or supplements.
At-home urine strips cannot identify stone composition or determine whether bladder stones are present.
Urinary pH is only part of the picture. Urine specific gravity (USG) measures how concentrated or diluted the urine is.
Highly concentrated urine can increase the risk of crystal and stone formation, even when urinary pH appears acceptable.
Encouraging adequate water intake and feeding appropriate moisture-rich foods can help dilute urine and support urinary tract health.
Rather than chasing a specific urinary pH number, focus on the bigger picture:
Identify the crystal or stone type.
Provide appropriate, balanced nutrition.
Encourage consistent hydration.
Address infections and underlying health conditions.
Monitor urinary pH and concentration.
Individualize supplements and dietary adjustments.
The goal isn’t simply to change urinary pH. It’s to create urinary conditions that reduce the likelihood of stones forming or recurring while supporting your pet’s overall health.
Proper testing is essential when dealing with urinary crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats. While symptoms such as frequent urination, straining, or blood in the urine may suggest a urinary problem, they don’t tell us which type of crystal or stone is present.
One of the most important things pet parents should understand is that crystals in the urine do not automatically mean their pet has bladder stones.
A holistic approach begins with identifying the underlying problem, evaluating nutrition and hydration, and using appropriate diagnostic testing to develop an individualized plan.
A complete urinalysis provides valuable information about urinary tract health.
It can help identify:
Urinary pH: Whether the urine is acidic or alkaline.
Urine specific gravity (USG): How concentrated or diluted the urine is.
Crystals: The presence and type of crystals seen under a microscope.
Blood: Possible inflammation, irritation, infection, or stones.
White blood cells and bacteria: Findings that may suggest infection.
Protein and glucose: Abnormalities that may warrant additional testing.
Crystals can sometimes develop after urine has been collected, particularly if the sample is refrigerated or not examined promptly. Fresh samples are preferable for accurate crystal evaluation.
Important: Crystals do not always indicate disease, and some pets with bladder stones have no detectable crystals in their urine.
Urinary tract infections can contribute to certain stone types, especially struvite stones in dogs.
A urine culture helps determine:
Whether a bacterial infection is present.
Which bacteria are responsible.
Which antibiotics are most likely to be effective.
Whenever possible, a sterile sample collected by cystocentesis is preferred for diagnosing bacterial urinary infections.
Repeatedly treating suspected infections without confirming their presence can lead to unnecessary antibiotic use and may delay identifying the actual cause.
Urinalysis alone cannot confirm or rule out bladder stones.
X-rays can identify many types of urinary stones, particularly calcium-containing stones and many struvite stones.
Ultrasound can help detect stones, sediment, bladder abnormalities, and other urinary tract concerns.
Some stones, including certain urate and cystine stones, may be difficult to see on routine X-rays. Ultrasound or specialized imaging may be needed.
Imaging can also help determine whether stones are increasing in size, decreasing, or remaining stable.
Whenever a stone is passed or removed, request laboratory stone analysis.
This is one of the most valuable steps in developing an appropriate prevention plan.
Stone analysis can identify:
Struvite
Calcium oxalate
Urate
Cystine
Silica
Calcium phosphate
Xanthine
Mixed or compound stones
Different stones require different nutritional and medical approaches. Some stones contain multiple mineral types, which can complicate prevention.
Urinary pH, crystal appearance, and X-rays may suggest a stone type, but they cannot reliably establish its exact composition.
Some pets develop urinary stones because of underlying medical conditions.
Depending on the stone type and medical history, testing may include:
Kidney function and electrolyte levels
Blood calcium levels
Liver enzymes and liver function testing
Bile acids testing when a liver shunt is suspected
Evaluation for hormonal or metabolic disorders
Breed-related genetic testing when appropriate
For example, urate stones can sometimes indicate an underlying liver abnormality, while elevated blood calcium may contribute to calcium oxalate stone formation.
Addressing these underlying conditions is an important part of preventing recurrence.
At-home monitoring can help pet parents recognize changes between veterinary appointments.
Useful steps include:
Monitoring how frequently your pet urinates.
Watching for straining, discomfort, or blood in the urine.
Tracking water intake and appetite.
Recording changes in urinary habits.
Using urine pH strips as an additional tool when recommended by your veterinarian.
Keeping a record of urinalysis results, including urine specific gravity.
At-home urine strips have limitations. They cannot diagnose bladder stones, reliably identify infections, or determine stone composition.
A normal urine pH reading does not mean your pet is free of urinary stones.
Follow-up testing depends on the stone type, medical history, and treatment plan.
Pets with recurrent stones may need:
Periodic urinalysis
Urine cultures when indicated
Repeat X-rays or ultrasound
Monitoring of kidney and liver function
Nutritional reassessment
Pets undergoing active stone treatment often require closer monitoring than those who have remained stone-free.
The goal is to identify changes early and adjust the care plan before another painful episode develops.
A pet that repeatedly strains to urinate but produces little or no urine needs immediate emergency veterinary attention.
Urinary obstruction can rapidly cause dangerous electrolyte abnormalities, kidney injury, and death. Male cats are particularly vulnerable, although dogs and female cats can also develop obstructions.
Do not attempt to manage a suspected urinary blockage with herbs, supplements, homeopathic remedies, or dietary changes.
Successful urinary stone prevention begins with understanding why the stones developed.
By combining appropriate diagnostic testing, individualized fresh-food nutrition, hydration, and careful monitoring, pet parents can take a proactive approach to supporting long-term urinary health.
Don’t guess at the stone type or rely on urinary pH alone. Identify the problem first, then develop a targeted plan to help reduce recurrence.
Urinary crystals and stones can develop when the body’s minerals and acids fall out of balance, often because of dehydration, poor filtration, inflammation, or added stress on the kidneys and bladder. Essential oils can offer gentle support by helping relax urinary tissues, easing internal inflammation, and encouraging the body to flush out irritants more efficiently. They aren’t a replacement for veterinary care, but they can help the body move toward a healthier internal balance.
Used thoughtfully, essential oils can ease urinary tract irritation and discomfort, support normal kidney and bladder function, encourage natural hydration and fluid movement, help maintain mineral balance, and promote internal calm that reduces stress on the organs.
Frankincense supports healthy cellular function and helps reduce inflammation along the urinary tract. Its ability to promote circulation and soothe irritated tissues makes it especially helpful when crystals or stones are present. Copaiba works with the endocannabinoid system to lower inflammation and soothe discomfort while supporting normal kidney filtration and relaxing smooth muscle in the urinary system. Helichrysum encourages healthy tissue repair and helps ease irritation in the kidneys and bladder, offering gentle cleansing properties that may reduce crystal formation. Lemon promotes natural detoxification, supports hydration, and helps maintain a healthier pH level in the urinary system, aiding the body in flushing out excess minerals. Cypress improves circulation and supports steady fluid movement, helping ease urinary spasms and encouraging consistent flow to clear buildup. Juniper Berry is a natural urinary cleanser that helps the kidneys filter efficiently, supports flushing of the urinary tract, and may reduce crystal or stone formation. Myrrh offers deep support for calming and protecting irritated tissues and can help restore strength and comfort to the bladder and urinary lining.
Because crystals and stones often form under conditions of internal stress, supporting hydration, mineral processing, inflammation, and nervous system balance is essential. Essential oils can assist by promoting calm, improving communication within organ systems, and helping the body regulate itself more effectively. A holistic approach also includes focusing on water intake, nutrient – dense foods, urinary pH, and lowering exposure to inflammatory triggers so the body can restore urinary balance and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Important: Essential oils should only be considered under the guidance of a veterinarian experienced in their use. Some oils can be toxic to dogs and especially cats. They should never replace appropriate diagnosis or treatment for urinary stones or obstruction.
“From Conventional to Alternative: Best Strategies for Handling Canine Bladder Stones” by Dr. Lynda Loudon.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Stones Belong In Your Driveway, Not Your Pets Bladder.”
“Urinary Tract Issues In Dogs and Cats: (Struvite Stones and Crystals)” by Raw Feeding Advice and Support.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Urinary Tract Crystals in Pets.”
“Bladder and Kidney Stones and Crystals in Dogs – Natural Treatment and Prevention” by Dr. Peter Dobias.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Making Dog Food To Support Kidney and Bladder Health and More.”
“Holistic Treatment for Struvite Crystals and UTIs in Dogs and Cats” by Dr. Steve Marsden.
The Root Cause of Urinary Blockage in Cats” by Dr. Judy Morgan and The Two Crazy Cat Ladies.
“Ask Julie Anything – Kidney Health” by Julie Anne Lee.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Crystals In Your Pets Urine Part 1.”
“Easy Peesy Protocol” by Julie Anne Lee.
“Painful Reality of Bladder Kidney Stones in Pets” by Dr. Judy Morgan and Dr. Lynda Loudon.
If you have a question on this topic that wasn’t answered here, we invite you to ask it in our Facebook group.
There is no single diet that works for every crystal type. A moisture-rich, nutritionally balanced diet tailored to the pet’s urinary chemistry and underlying conditions is important. Fresh, gently cooked, or appropriately formulated raw diets may be options, but mineral levels, protein sources, and other nutrients must be considered according to the specific crystal or stone type.
No. Urinary pH provides useful information, but it cannot reliably identify stone composition. Struvite is often associated with alkaline urine, while urate and cystine stones are more likely to form in acidic conditions. Calcium oxalate stones can develop across a range of pH values. Laboratory stone analysis provides the most reliable identification.
Some can, provided the diet is complete, balanced, and appropriate for their specific stone type. Raw diets are not automatically suitable for urinary stone prevention. For example, organ-heavy diets may be inappropriate for dogs with urate stones because many organ meats contain high levels of purines. Raw animal products also carry bacterial risks, so food safety and the pet’s overall health must be considered.
It depends on the stone type. Some struvite and urate stones can dissolve with carefully controlled dietary and medical treatment. Calcium oxalate stones cannot be dissolved through nutrition, herbs, or supplements. Although natural products are sometimes used for urinary support, there is insufficient veterinary evidence that they reliably dissolve existing bladder stones. Identifying the stone type is essential before choosing a treatment plan.
Cystine stones usually develop because of cystinuria, a condition in which the kidneys release excessive amounts of cystine into the urine. It is often inherited and can affect certain breeds more frequently. Hydration, individualized dietary adjustments, and veterinary monitoring are important. Some dogs also benefit from medication or neutering, depending on the type of cystinuria.
Lower-purine protein sources include egg whites, eggs, and certain dairy products such as cottage cheese or plain yogurt. Carefully measured portions of other proteins may also be appropriate. Organ meats, sardines, anchovies, and concentrated meat extracts are generally higher in purines. Dogs still need adequate protein and essential amino acids, so dietary changes should be individually formulated.
Recurrence risk may be reduced through increased water intake, appropriate mineral balance, and individualized nutrition. However, calcium oxalate stones cannot be dissolved naturally once formed. Some pets also have underlying metabolic conditions that need evaluation. Ongoing urine testing and imaging are important because these stones can recur.
No. Crystals may be present without causing disease, and some form after urine collection because of storage conditions. Conversely, pets can develop bladder stones without detectable crystals in their urine. A complete urinalysis, clinical history, and imaging help determine whether treatment is necessary.
Inadequate water intake can contribute to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of certain crystals and stones. Hydration is an important preventive strategy, but genetics, infections, nutrition, urinary chemistry, and underlying medical conditions also influence stone formation.
There is insufficient veterinary evidence that cranberry, D-mannose, marshmallow root, corn silk, or other commonly used urinary supplements reliably dissolve bladder stones. Some may be considered for complementary urinary support, but their safety and suitability depend on the individual pet. They should not replace diagnosis or treatment of stones or infections.
Recurrence can occur because of genetics, persistent infections, concentrated urine, dietary factors, metabolic conditions, or incomplete resolution of the original problem. Different stone types have different recurrence risks. Identifying the stone composition and addressing contributing factors are essential for long-term prevention.
Repeated straining with little or no urine produced is an emergency, especially in male cats. Other concerning symptoms include vomiting, severe discomfort, weakness, and a painful abdomen. A urinary blockage can quickly become life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary treatment. Do not attempt to relieve a suspected obstruction with home remedies or supplements.
This is what we would do to treat our dog and cats crystals and stone holistically. Keep in mind
Proper hydration is one of the most important factors in supporting urinary tract health and helping reduce the risk of recurring crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats.
When pets don’t consume enough water, their urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood that certain minerals and other substances will form crystals or stones. Increasing moisture intake helps dilute the urine and encourages more frequent urination, reducing the time these substances remain in the bladder.
1. Feed Moisture-Rich Foods
Consider nutritionally balanced raw, gently cooked, or canned foods appropriate for your pet’s stone type.
Add water to meals to increase moisture intake.
For pets eating dry food, rehydrating meals can help increase total water consumption.
2. Encourage More Drinking
Provide several water bowls throughout the home.
Try a pet water fountain, particularly for cats.
Use wide, shallow bowls for cats that dislike their whiskers touching the sides.
Keep water fresh and bowls clean.
Experiment with bowl materials and locations to discover your pet’s preferences.
3. Make Water More Appealing
Add small amounts of plain, unsalted bone broth without onions, garlic, or added seasonings.
Offer water flavored with a small amount of appropriate, unsalted meat cooking liquid.
Consider offering ice cubes or frozen diluted broth as an occasional treat.
For pets with urate stones, avoid concentrated meat broths and organ-based broths that may contain significant amounts of purines.
4. Support Healthy Urination Habits
Give dogs frequent opportunities to urinate throughout the day.
Keep cat litter boxes clean and easily accessible.
Provide multiple litter boxes in multi-cat households.
Encourage regular movement, play, and appropriate exercise.
Struvite: Diluting urine can help reduce the concentration of minerals involved in struvite formation.
Calcium Oxalate: Increasing urine volume is an important strategy for reducing recurrence risk.
Urate: Dilute urine helps reduce urate concentration and may lower the likelihood of stone formation.
Cystine: Increasing water intake is particularly important because concentrated urine increases the risk of cystine precipitation.
Urine specific gravity (USG), measured during a veterinary urinalysis, helps assess urine concentration.
Pets with recurring urinary stones may benefit from individualized urine concentration targets and regular monitoring.
Important: Hydration is supportive, but it cannot reliably dissolve existing stones or relieve a urinary obstruction. Pets with heart disease, kidney disease, or other conditions requiring fluid management need an individualized hydration plan. Also, choose supplements according to the stone type your pet has rather than combining several that are not appropriate for that type of stone.
We do not recommend you feed a prescription diet.
These are all good products you can use. We recommend you do a few.
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Urinary crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats can be painful and may lead to serious urinary complications. The most common types include struvite and calcium oxalate, but pets can also develop urate, cystine, and other stones. Each type has different causes and requires a specific approach to treatment and prevention. Understanding the role of nutrition, hydration, urinary pH, and underlying health conditions is essential. A holistic approach focuses on identifying contributing factors, supporting urinary tract health, and helping prevent recurrence rather than simply managing symptoms.
Dogs and cats need moisture in their diet. A raw or gently cooked diet is best. We do not recommend prescription diets.
Provide bone broth or raw fermented goats milk (5% off with URL) to provide extra hydration.
Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol is fantastic for dogs and cats with urinary crystals and stones.
Urinary crystals and stones, also known as uroliths or calculi, can develop when minerals and other substances in the urine become concentrated and form solid deposits. Crystals do not always lead to stones, and some may appear in urine samples without causing disease. However, bladder stones can cause inflammation, pain, infections, and potentially life-threatening urinary blockages.
The type of crystal or stone matters. Different types have different causes, nutritional considerations, and treatment options. What helps one type may actually worsen another.
1. Struvite (Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate)
Common in both dogs and cats.
Frequently associated with bacterial urinary tract infections in dogs.
Can also develop without infection, particularly in cats.
Often associated with alkaline urine, although urine pH alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.
Many struvite stones can be dissolved using appropriate veterinary dietary treatment, with antibiotics when an infection is present.
2. Calcium Oxalate
Common in dogs and cats, particularly certain breeds and older pets.
Associated with several factors, including urine concentration, calcium metabolism, genetics, and urinary chemistry.
Cannot be dissolved through dietary changes or supplements.
Prevention focuses on hydration, appropriate mineral balance, and individualized nutritional management.
3. Urate Stones
More common in certain breeds, including Dalmatians, because of inherited differences in uric acid metabolism.
Can also occur in pets with liver disorders, including portosystemic shunts.
May require a diet lower in purines rather than simply restricting all animal protein.
Some urate stones can dissolve with appropriate veterinary treatment.
Hydration and management of underlying liver conditions are especially important.
4. Cystine Stones
Usually associated with an inherited condition called cystinuria, in which the kidneys release excessive cystine into the urine.
More common in certain dog breeds and often affects males.
Can recur even after successful removal.
Nutritional management, increased water intake, and sometimes urinary alkalinization or medication may help.
Neutering may reduce recurrence in certain androgen-dependent cases.
5. Less Common Stones
Other types include silica, calcium phosphate, and xanthine stones. These have different underlying causes and require individualized treatment and prevention.
Frequent urination or repeated attempts to urinate
Blood in the urine
Straining, crying, or discomfort while urinating
Urinating in unusual places
Excessive licking of the genital area
Passing small amounts of urine
Lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite
URGENT: A dog or cat that cannot urinate, or repeatedly strains with little or no urine produced, needs immediate emergency veterinary care. Urinary obstruction can quickly become life-threatening, particularly in male cats.
From a holistic perspective, it’s important to look beyond the stones themselves and investigate factors that may contribute to their formation or recurrence.
These may include:
Inadequate hydration: Concentrated urine can increase the risk of certain crystals and stones.
Nutrition: Dietary mineral content, protein composition, and moisture levels can influence urinary chemistry.
Urinary pH: Excessively acidic or alkaline urine may favor certain stone types.
Urinary tract infections: Particularly important with infection-associated struvite stones in dogs.
Genetics: Some breeds are predisposed to specific stone types.
Metabolic or liver disorders: These can contribute to certain stones, particularly urate stones.
Stress and urinary health: Stress can contribute to feline lower urinary tract disease, although it is not an established direct cause of most urinary stones.
1. Prioritize Hydration
Adequate hydration is one of the most important ways to support urinary tract health.
Provide fresh, clean water throughout the day.
Consider pet water fountains, particularly for cats.
Add water to meals to increase moisture intake.
Consider moisture-rich, nutritionally balanced raw, gently cooked, or canned diets when appropriate for the specific stone type.
Small amounts of plain, unsalted bone broth may encourage drinking, provided it contains no onions, garlic, or inappropriate added minerals.
2. Optimize Nutrition
Nutrition plays a major role in managing urinary stone risk, but there is no single diet suitable for every stone type.
Focus on adequate dietary moisture and complete, balanced nutrition.
Evaluate mineral content, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and sodium, according to the diagnosed stone type.
Consider fresh-food options when they can meet the pet’s specific nutritional requirements.
Learn more about raw feeding and dry kibble.
The goal is to support urinary health through adequate hydration, appropriate nutrition, and addressing underlying contributing factors rather than relying on a single dietary approach.
3. Understand Urinary pH
Urinary pH influences the formation of certain crystals and stones, but deliberately changing pH without knowing the stone type can be harmful.
Struvite stones are generally favored by alkaline urine.
Calcium oxalate stone risk involves multiple factors and cannot be managed through pH alone.
Urate and cystine stones may require different urinary pH strategies.
Avoid using urine acidifiers or alkalinizers without veterinary guidance.
4. Natural Urinary Tract Support
Certain herbs and supplements are traditionally used to support urinary comfort, although evidence that they dissolve or prevent urinary stones in dogs and cats is limited.
Options sometimes considered include:
Marshmallow root and corn silk for traditional soothing support.
Cranberry products for selected urinary concerns, although they have not been proven to dissolve stones.
These products should be assessed individually for their ingredients, safety, and suitability. They are not substitutes for diagnosing or treating stones, infections, or urinary obstructions.
D-mannose, homeopathic remedies, and chanca piedra do not have reliable clinical evidence demonstrating that they dissolve urinary stones in dogs or cats. Potassium citrate has specific veterinary uses but should only be given when indicated because it alters urinary chemistry.
5. Manage Stress
Reducing stress and anxiety is particularly important for cats with feline idiopathic cystitis and other stress-sensitive urinary conditions.
Maintain predictable feeding and household routines.
Provide quiet resting areas and environmental enrichment.
Ensure cats have adequate, clean litter boxes.
Encourage appropriate play and exercise.
Consider calming support when needed.
Stress and anxiety management supports overall urinary health but does not replace stone-specific treatment.
6. Regular Monitoring
Schedule follow-up urinalysis based on your pet’s history.
Request urine cultures when infection is suspected. You can also get them done by Affordable Pet Labs in the comfort of your home. (15% coupon: savingpets).
Use X-rays or ultrasound to identify and monitor stones.
Consider laboratory stone analysis whenever a stone is passed or removed.
Monitor urine concentration and pH as part of a broader veterinary assessment.
At-home urine test strips may provide supplemental information, but they cannot identify stone composition or reliably determine whether stones are present.
Successful prevention starts with identifying the stone type. Hydration, appropriate nutrition, regular monitoring, and addressing underlying health conditions are essential components of a holistic urinary health plan.
Not all urinary stones respond to the same dietary approach. Understanding the type of stone your dog or cat has is essential when choosing foods, supplements, and supportive therapies. The goal is to improve hydration, support healthy urinary chemistry, address underlying conditions, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Struvite stones are composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate. In dogs, they are frequently associated with bacterial urinary tract infections. In cats, they often develop without an infection.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Prioritize adequate hydration through moisture-rich meals.
Provide a complete, balanced diet with appropriate magnesium and phosphorus levels.
Avoid unnecessary mineral supplementation.
Identify and address urinary tract infections, particularly in dogs.
Monitor urinary pH and concentration through veterinary testing or Affordable Pet Labs (15% coupon: savingpets).
Infection-associated struvite stones require appropriate treatment of the infection. Some struvite stones can be dissolved through carefully controlled dietary and medical treatment.
Calcium oxalate stones are common in both dogs and cats and cannot be dissolved through dietary changes, herbs, or supplements.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Encourage water intake to produce more dilute urine.
Provide balanced calcium intake rather than severely restricting calcium.
Avoid excessive vitamin C and unnecessary calcium or vitamin D supplementation.
Review dietary sodium, protein, and mineral content with a veterinary nutritionist.
Consider potassium citrate only when indicated and prescribed by a veterinarian.
Some pets have underlying metabolic conditions that increase their risk of calcium oxalate stones. Identifying these conditions can help reduce recurrence.
Urate stones are particularly important in Dalmatians and other dogs with inherited differences in uric acid metabolism. They can also develop in pets with certain liver disorders.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Emphasize adequate hydration.
Consider a carefully formulated, lower-purine diet.
Limit high-purine ingredients such as organ meats, particularly liver and kidney, and certain fish.
Select protein sources based on purine content and the pet’s individual nutritional requirements.
Egg whites — One of the best low-purine protein sources. They provide high-quality protein with very little purine.
Whole eggs — Generally low in purines, although the yolks add phosphorus and fat.
Cottage cheese — Generally low in purines and provides protein, but sodium and fat content should be considered.
Plain Greek yogurt — A lower-purine protein option, provided the dog tolerates dairy.
Ricotta cheese — Generally low in purines, although protein, fat, and mineral levels vary.
Tofu — A plant-based protein option that may be suitable in a professionally balanced diet.
These contain more purines than eggs and dairy, so they aren’t truly low-purine foods:
Skinless chicken breast
Turkey breast
Lean pork
Lean beef
The amount and preparation matter. Chicken and turkey are not automatically low-purine choices simply because they’re lean.
Investigate underlying liver abnormalities when appropriate.
Some urate stones can be medically dissolved, depending on their composition and the pet’s health. Dietary changes should be individualized to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
Cystine stones develop when excessive cystine is excreted into the urine, usually because of an inherited kidney transport abnormality called cystinuria.
Holistic nutritional considerations:
Increase water intake to dilute the urine.
Provide an appropriately formulated diet with controlled protein and sodium levels.
Avoid excessive protein supplementation.
Monitor urinary pH under veterinary guidance.
Discuss whether the condition may be androgen-dependent, since neutering can reduce recurrence in certain affected male dogs.
Cystine stones can recur, making ongoing monitoring particularly important.
Silica stones: May be associated with dietary and environmental factors, although the causes are not fully understood.
Calcium phosphate stones: Can be associated with urinary chemistry abnormalities and certain metabolic disorders.
Xanthine stones: May occur because of inherited metabolic abnormalities or as a complication of medications such as allopurinol.
These less common stones require individualized nutritional and medical management.
A fresh, moisture-rich diet can be part of a holistic urinary health plan, but it must be nutritionally complete and appropriate for the specific stone type.
There is no single food, supplement, herb, or urinary pH target that safely prevents every type of urinary stone.
Whenever possible, request laboratory analysis of a passed or removed stone. This provides valuable information for developing an individualized prevention strategy.
A holistic approach to urinary health goes beyond diet alone. Certain herbs and supplements may provide complementary support for urinary comfort, hydration, and overall urinary tract wellness.
However, not every supplement is appropriate for every type of urinary crystal or stone. Understanding the underlying condition is essential before introducing natural remedies.
One product we’ve received particularly encouraging feedback about in our Saving Pets One Pet @ A Time community is Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol.
Members have shared positive experiences incorporating this protocol into their pets’ urinary wellness routines.
As with any holistic supplement, results may vary depending on the type of urinary concern, diet, hydration, and underlying health conditions. These experiences are encouraging, but they do not establish that the protocol dissolves or prevents urinary stones.
Learn More About Adored Beast Easy Peesy Protocol
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a soothing plant compound traditionally used to support irritated mucous membranes.
Traditionally used for urinary tract comfort.
May provide soothing support for irritated tissues.
Has not been clinically proven to dissolve urinary stones in dogs or cats.
Marshmallow root may interfere with the absorption of oral medications, so administration timing should be discussed with your veterinarian.
Corn silk has a long history of traditional use for urinary wellness.
Traditionally used to support urinary tract comfort.
Contains plant compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Veterinary clinical evidence for preventing or treating urinary stones remains limited.
Use cautiously in pets with kidney disease, dehydration, or those receiving diuretics.
Cranberry contains compounds that may interfere with the attachment of certain bacteria to urinary tract tissues.
Sometimes used as complementary support for recurrent urinary tract concerns.
Evidence for preventing bacterial urinary infections in dogs and cats is limited.
Does not reliably dissolve urinary crystals or stones.
Cranberry products should not be used to deliberately acidify urine, particularly in pets prone to calcium oxalate stones.
We recommend Project Sudz Berry Boost to help keep the digestive tract healthy (10% coupon: savingpets).
D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar sometimes used to support urinary tract health.
Studied primarily for its potential role in reducing bacterial attachment, particularly with certain E. coli infections.
Evidence of benefit in dogs and cats is insufficient.
Does not dissolve struvite or other urinary stones.
Does not replace appropriate treatment of a confirmed urinary tract infection.
Potassium citrate is sometimes prescribed to help manage urinary chemistry, particularly in pets prone to calcium oxalate or cystine stones.
It can increase urinary citrate and raise urine pH, but it is not appropriate for every stone type.
Potassium citrate should only be used under veterinary guidance, especially in pets with kidney disease or those taking medications that affect potassium levels.
Chanca piedra, sometimes called stone breaker, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for urinary and kidney concerns.
Although preliminary research has explored its effects on stone formation, reliable veterinary evidence demonstrating that it dissolves bladder stones in dogs or cats is lacking.
It should not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
Before using supplements, consider:
The type of crystal or stone diagnosed
Urinary pH and concentration
Kidney and liver function
Whether a bacterial infection is present
Current medications and supplements
The risk of urinary obstruction
Remember: Natural support works best as part of an individualized plan that includes appropriate nutrition, hydration, monitoring, and veterinary care when needed.
The Easy Peesy Protocol helps support the body’s defence against recurring bladder and urinary infections. Supports bladder health and the creation of an environment that discourages crystal formation
Urinary pH measures how acidic or alkaline your pet’s urine is. It plays an important role in urinary health because certain crystals and stones are more likely to form under specific pH conditions.
One of the biggest mistakes pet parents can make is trying to acidify or alkalinize their pet’s urine without knowing which type of crystal or stone is present. What helps one type may actually increase the risk of another.
A holistic approach focuses on proper nutrition, hydration, identifying underlying health conditions, and maintaining urinary chemistry appropriate for the individual pet.
Struvite Crystals and Stones
Struvite crystals are more likely to form in alkaline urine.
In dogs, bacterial urinary tract infections can raise urinary pH and contribute to struvite formation.
Managing infections, hydration, and dietary mineral balance is important.
Urine should not be deliberately acidified without veterinary guidance.
Calcium Oxalate Stones
Calcium oxalate stones can form across a range of urinary pH values.
Excessive urinary acidification may increase the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation.
Maintaining adequate hydration and appropriate mineral balance is particularly important.
Potassium citrate may be recommended for certain pets, depending on their urinary chemistry and medical history.
Urate Stones
Urate stones are more likely to form in acidic urine.
Some affected pets benefit from carefully controlled urinary alkalinization.
Lower-purine nutrition may be important, particularly for dogs with inherited urate metabolism abnormalities.
Underlying liver conditions should be investigated when appropriate.
Cystine Stones
Cystine is less soluble in acidic urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.
Carefully monitored urinary alkalinization may help reduce recurrence.
Adequate hydration and individualized protein and sodium management are important.
Some dogs require additional medical treatment because nutrition alone may not adequately control cystinuria.
Yes. Diet can influence urinary pH, but the effect depends on the overall nutrient composition, not simply whether a food is raw, cooked, or processed, however raw and gently cooked offers more moisture.
Factors that may influence urinary pH include:
Protein sources and amino acid composition
Dietary mineral balance
Certain supplements and medications
Underlying metabolic conditions
Fresh, moisture-rich nutrition can support urinary health, but it does not automatically produce the ideal urinary pH for every stone type.
Avoid using apple cider vinegar, cranberry, vitamin C, or other acidifying substances specifically to change urinary pH without knowing the stone type and monitoring the response.
Urinary pH can change throughout the day depending on meals, medications, and other factors.
For pets with recurring crystals or stones:
Request a complete veterinary urinalysis, including pH and urine specific gravity.
Consider a urine culture when infection is suspectedAffordable Pet Labs can come to your home to do it. (15% coupon: savingpets).
Use at-home urine pH strips only as an additional monitoring tool.
Record results consistently, including the time of day and relationship to meals.
Review changes with your veterinarian before adjusting diet or supplements.
At-home urine strips cannot identify stone composition or determine whether bladder stones are present.
Urinary pH is only part of the picture. Urine specific gravity (USG) measures how concentrated or diluted the urine is.
Highly concentrated urine can increase the risk of crystal and stone formation, even when urinary pH appears acceptable.
Encouraging adequate water intake and feeding appropriate moisture-rich foods can help dilute urine and support urinary tract health.
Rather than chasing a specific urinary pH number, focus on the bigger picture:
Identify the crystal or stone type.
Provide appropriate, balanced nutrition.
Encourage consistent hydration.
Address infections and underlying health conditions.
Monitor urinary pH and concentration.
Individualize supplements and dietary adjustments.
The goal isn’t simply to change urinary pH. It’s to create urinary conditions that reduce the likelihood of stones forming or recurring while supporting your pet’s overall health.
Proper testing is essential when dealing with urinary crystals and bladder stones in dogs and cats. While symptoms such as frequent urination, straining, or blood in the urine may suggest a urinary problem, they don’t tell us which type of crystal or stone is present.
One of the most important things pet parents should understand is that crystals in the urine do not automatically mean their pet has bladder stones.
A holistic approach begins with identifying the underlying problem, evaluating nutrition and hydration, and using appropriate diagnostic testing to develop an individualized plan.
A complete urinalysis provides valuable information about urinary tract health.
It can help identify:
Urinary pH: Whether the urine is acidic or alkaline.
Urine specific gravity (USG): How concentrated or diluted the urine is.
Crystals: The presence and type of crystals seen under a microscope.
Blood: Possible inflammation, irritation, infection, or stones.
White blood cells and bacteria: Findings that may suggest infection.
Protein and glucose: Abnormalities that may warrant additional testing.
Crystals can sometimes develop after urine has been collected, particularly if the sample is refrigerated or not examined promptly. Fresh samples are preferable for accurate crystal evaluation.
Important: Crystals do not always indicate disease, and some pets with bladder stones have no detectable crystals in their urine.
Urinary tract infections can contribute to certain stone types, especially struvite stones in dogs.
A urine culture helps determine:
Whether a bacterial infection is present.
Which bacteria are responsible.
Which antibiotics are most likely to be effective.
Whenever possible, a sterile sample collected by cystocentesis is preferred for diagnosing bacterial urinary infections.
Repeatedly treating suspected infections without confirming their presence can lead to unnecessary antibiotic use and may delay identifying the actual cause.
Urinalysis alone cannot confirm or rule out bladder stones.
X-rays can identify many types of urinary stones, particularly calcium-containing stones and many struvite stones.
Ultrasound can help detect stones, sediment, bladder abnormalities, and other urinary tract concerns.
Some stones, including certain urate and cystine stones, may be difficult to see on routine X-rays. Ultrasound or specialized imaging may be needed.
Imaging can also help determine whether stones are increasing in size, decreasing, or remaining stable.
Whenever a stone is passed or removed, request laboratory stone analysis.
This is one of the most valuable steps in developing an appropriate prevention plan.
Stone analysis can identify:
Struvite
Calcium oxalate
Urate
Cystine
Silica
Calcium phosphate
Xanthine
Mixed or compound stones
Different stones require different nutritional and medical approaches. Some stones contain multiple mineral types, which can complicate prevention.
Urinary pH, crystal appearance, and X-rays may suggest a stone type, but they cannot reliably establish its exact composition.
Some pets develop urinary stones because of underlying medical conditions.
Depending on the stone type and medical history, testing may include:
Kidney function and electrolyte levels
Blood calcium levels
Liver enzymes and liver function testing
Bile acids testing when a liver shunt is suspected
Evaluation for hormonal or metabolic disorders
Breed-related genetic testing when appropriate
For example, urate stones can sometimes indicate an underlying liver abnormality, while elevated blood calcium may contribute to calcium oxalate stone formation.
Addressing these underlying conditions is an important part of preventing recurrence.
At-home monitoring can help pet parents recognize changes between veterinary appointments.
Useful steps include:
Monitoring how frequently your pet urinates.
Watching for straining, discomfort, or blood in the urine.
Tracking water intake and appetite.
Recording changes in urinary habits.
Using urine pH strips as an additional tool when recommended by your veterinarian.
Keeping a record of urinalysis results, including urine specific gravity.
At-home urine strips have limitations. They cannot diagnose bladder stones, reliably identify infections, or determine stone composition.
A normal urine pH reading does not mean your pet is free of urinary stones.
Follow-up testing depends on the stone type, medical history, and treatment plan.
Pets with recurrent stones may need:
Periodic urinalysis
Urine cultures when indicated
Repeat X-rays or ultrasound
Monitoring of kidney and liver function
Nutritional reassessment
Pets undergoing active stone treatment often require closer monitoring than those who have remained stone-free.
The goal is to identify changes early and adjust the care plan before another painful episode develops.
A pet that repeatedly strains to urinate but produces little or no urine needs immediate emergency veterinary attention.
Urinary obstruction can rapidly cause dangerous electrolyte abnormalities, kidney injury, and death. Male cats are particularly vulnerable, although dogs and female cats can also develop obstructions.
Do not attempt to manage a suspected urinary blockage with herbs, supplements, homeopathic remedies, or dietary changes.
Successful urinary stone prevention begins with understanding why the stones developed.
By combining appropriate diagnostic testing, individualized fresh-food nutrition, hydration, and careful monitoring, pet parents can take a proactive approach to supporting long-term urinary health.
Don’t guess at the stone type or rely on urinary pH alone. Identify the problem first, then develop a targeted plan to help reduce recurrence.
Urinary crystals and stones can develop when the body’s minerals and acids fall out of balance, often because of dehydration, poor filtration, inflammation, or added stress on the kidneys and bladder. Essential oils can offer gentle support by helping relax urinary tissues, easing internal inflammation, and encouraging the body to flush out irritants more efficiently. They aren’t a replacement for veterinary care, but they can help the body move toward a healthier internal balance.
Used thoughtfully, essential oils can ease urinary tract irritation and discomfort, support normal kidney and bladder function, encourage natural hydration and fluid movement, help maintain mineral balance, and promote internal calm that reduces stress on the organs.
Frankincense supports healthy cellular function and helps reduce inflammation along the urinary tract. Its ability to promote circulation and soothe irritated tissues makes it especially helpful when crystals or stones are present. Copaiba works with the endocannabinoid system to lower inflammation and soothe discomfort while supporting normal kidney filtration and relaxing smooth muscle in the urinary system. Helichrysum encourages healthy tissue repair and helps ease irritation in the kidneys and bladder, offering gentle cleansing properties that may reduce crystal formation. Lemon promotes natural detoxification, supports hydration, and helps maintain a healthier pH level in the urinary system, aiding the body in flushing out excess minerals. Cypress improves circulation and supports steady fluid movement, helping ease urinary spasms and encouraging consistent flow to clear buildup. Juniper Berry is a natural urinary cleanser that helps the kidneys filter efficiently, supports flushing of the urinary tract, and may reduce crystal or stone formation. Myrrh offers deep support for calming and protecting irritated tissues and can help restore strength and comfort to the bladder and urinary lining.
Because crystals and stones often form under conditions of internal stress, supporting hydration, mineral processing, inflammation, and nervous system balance is essential. Essential oils can assist by promoting calm, improving communication within organ systems, and helping the body regulate itself more effectively. A holistic approach also includes focusing on water intake, nutrient – dense foods, urinary pH, and lowering exposure to inflammatory triggers so the body can restore urinary balance and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Important: Essential oils should only be considered under the guidance of a veterinarian experienced in their use. Some oils can be toxic to dogs and especially cats. They should never replace appropriate diagnosis or treatment for urinary stones or obstruction.
“From Conventional to Alternative: Best Strategies for Handling Canine Bladder Stones” by Dr. Lynda Loudon.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Stones Belong In Your Driveway, Not Your Pets Bladder.”
“Urinary Tract Issues In Dogs and Cats: (Struvite Stones and Crystals)” by Raw Feeding Advice and Support.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Urinary Tract Crystals in Pets.”
“Bladder and Kidney Stones and Crystals in Dogs – Natural Treatment and Prevention” by Dr. Peter Dobias.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Making Dog Food To Support Kidney and Bladder Health and More.”
“Holistic Treatment for Struvite Crystals and UTIs in Dogs and Cats” by Dr. Steve Marsden.
The Root Cause of Urinary Blockage in Cats” by Dr. Judy Morgan and The Two Crazy Cat Ladies.
“Ask Julie Anything – Kidney Health” by Julie Anne Lee.
Dr. Judy Morgan (2025 Holistic Veterinarian of the Decade): “Crystals In Your Pets Urine Part 1.”
“Easy Peesy Protocol” by Julie Anne Lee.
“Painful Reality of Bladder Kidney Stones in Pets” by Dr. Judy Morgan and Dr. Lynda Loudon.
If you have a question on this topic that wasn’t answered here, we invite you to ask it in our Facebook group.
There is no single diet that works for every crystal type. A moisture-rich, nutritionally balanced diet tailored to the pet’s urinary chemistry and underlying conditions is important. Fresh, gently cooked, or appropriately formulated raw diets may be options, but mineral levels, protein sources, and other nutrients must be considered according to the specific crystal or stone type.
No. Urinary pH provides useful information, but it cannot reliably identify stone composition. Struvite is often associated with alkaline urine, while urate and cystine stones are more likely to form in acidic conditions. Calcium oxalate stones can develop across a range of pH values. Laboratory stone analysis provides the most reliable identification.
Some can, provided the diet is complete, balanced, and appropriate for their specific stone type. Raw diets are not automatically suitable for urinary stone prevention. For example, organ-heavy diets may be inappropriate for dogs with urate stones because many organ meats contain high levels of purines. Raw animal products also carry bacterial risks, so food safety and the pet’s overall health must be considered.
It depends on the stone type. Some struvite and urate stones can dissolve with carefully controlled dietary and medical treatment. Calcium oxalate stones cannot be dissolved through nutrition, herbs, or supplements. Although natural products are sometimes used for urinary support, there is insufficient veterinary evidence that they reliably dissolve existing bladder stones. Identifying the stone type is essential before choosing a treatment plan.
Cystine stones usually develop because of cystinuria, a condition in which the kidneys release excessive amounts of cystine into the urine. It is often inherited and can affect certain breeds more frequently. Hydration, individualized dietary adjustments, and veterinary monitoring are important. Some dogs also benefit from medication or neutering, depending on the type of cystinuria.
Lower-purine protein sources include egg whites, eggs, and certain dairy products such as cottage cheese or plain yogurt. Carefully measured portions of other proteins may also be appropriate. Organ meats, sardines, anchovies, and concentrated meat extracts are generally higher in purines. Dogs still need adequate protein and essential amino acids, so dietary changes should be individually formulated.
Recurrence risk may be reduced through increased water intake, appropriate mineral balance, and individualized nutrition. However, calcium oxalate stones cannot be dissolved naturally once formed. Some pets also have underlying metabolic conditions that need evaluation. Ongoing urine testing and imaging are important because these stones can recur.
No. Crystals may be present without causing disease, and some form after urine collection because of storage conditions. Conversely, pets can develop bladder stones without detectable crystals in their urine. A complete urinalysis, clinical history, and imaging help determine whether treatment is necessary.
nadequate water intake can contribute to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of certain crystals and stones. Hydration is an important preventive strategy, but genetics, infections, nutrition, urinary chemistry, and underlying medical conditions also influence stone formation.
There is insufficient veterinary evidence that cranberry, D-mannose, marshmallow root, corn silk, or other commonly used urinary supplements reliably dissolve bladder stones. Some may be considered for complementary urinary support, but their safety and suitability depend on the individual pet. They should not replace diagnosis or treatment of stones or infections.
Recurrence can occur because of genetics, persistent infections, concentrated urine, dietary factors, metabolic conditions, or incomplete resolution of the original problem. Different stone types have different recurrence risks. Identifying the stone composition and addressing contributing factors are essential for long-term prevention.
Repeated straining with little or no urine produced is an emergency, especially in male cats. Other concerning symptoms include vomiting, severe discomfort, weakness, and a painful abdomen. A urinary blockage can quickly become life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary treatment. Do not attempt to relieve a suspected obstruction with home remedies or supplements.
This is what we would do to treat our dog and cats crystals and stone holistically.
We do not recommend you feed a prescription diet.
These are all good products you can use. We recommend you do a few.
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