Renal Calculi in Domestic Animals – Causes & Treatment

Abstract

Renal calculi, or kidney stones, are an increasingly recognised yet often underestimated health issue in domestic animals. Because these stones may cause no visible symptoms for long periods, the condition is frequently detected only after significant complications arise—such as urinary obstruction, infection, or irreversible kidney damage. Stone formation is influenced by factors like diet, genetics, species predisposition, age, and urinary tract infections. Early detection through diagnostic imaging and preventive strategies such as dietary modification, maintaining hydration, and managing infections is essential to reducing morbidity. This article highlights why renal calculi are considered a “silent threat,” explores risk factors, symptoms, and diagnostic methods, and outlines effective prevention and Ayurvedic management approaches for domestic animals.

Introduction

Renal calculi, also known as nephroliths, refer to solid mineral deposits formed within the kidneys or upper urinary tract of animals. Most affected animals show no signs until stones grow large enough to disrupt urine flow or cause an infection that makes them dangerous. By the time clinical signs become evident, substantial kidney damage may already have occurred. The condition is multifactorial, with contributing factors ranging from diet and dehydration to breed predisposition and metabolic abnormalities. Domestic animals such as dogs, cats, cattle, horses, goats, and sheep can all develop renal calculi, though the types of stones and underlying causes differ across species. Without timely detection and management, the silent presence of these stones can escalate into life-threatening emergencies, particularly if a ureter becomes obstructed.

Why Renal Calculi in Domestic Animals are Silent Threat

1. Asymptomatic For Long Periods

Most kidney stones cause no early pain or discomfort. Many are identified incidentally during ultrasound or X-rays performed for unrelated issues.

2. Vague And Easily Overlooked Symptoms

• Increased drinking and urination
• Reduced appetite
• Mild lethargy
• Unexplained weight loss

3. Risk Of Irreversible Kidney Damage

• Hydronephrosis
• Kidney tissue destruction
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)

4. Sudden, Life-Threatening Obstructions

If a stone moves and blocks the ureter, it creates an emergency marked by severe pain, vomiting, or inability to urinate—requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Causes Of Renal Calculi In Domestic Animals

• Improper Diet: High levels of animal protein, calcium, phosphorus and sodium.
• Dehydration leading to concentrated urine.
• Urinary tract infections promoting struvite stones.
• Mineral and metabolic imbalances.
• Genetic and breed predisposition.

Signs And Symptoms Of Kidney Stones In Domestic Animals

Urination Changes

• Frequent urination with very small volumes
• Straining while urinating
• Painful urination
• Increased or decreased urine output
• Urinating in unusual places

Physical Signs

• Blood present in urine
• Vomiting episodes
• Abdominal pain or discomfort

Behavioral Changes

• Lethargy or overall weakness
• Restlessness or discomfort
• Reduced appetite or gradual weight loss
• Fever
• Signs of uremia

Common Types Of Stones In Domestic Animals

• Cats: Calcium oxalate stones dominate upper urinary tract conditions.
• Dogs: Struvite stones are common in the bladder; calcium oxalate stones occur in the kidneys.

Diagnosis Of Renal Calculi in Domestic Animals

• Urinalysis
• Ultrasound
• X-rays
• CT scan
• Blood tests for kidney function

Ayurvedic Overview Of Renal Calculi in Domestic Animals

In Ayurveda, urinary stones in pets are correlated with “Mutra Asmari,” formed due to improper digestion, toxin buildup, and imbalance of doshas. Low water intake, unsuitable diet, urinary infections, and suppression of natural urges lead to concentrated urine and salt sedimentation. Kapha helps bind these sediments into stones, Vata causes dryness and crystal formation, while Pitta contributes to acidic urine that hardens the calculi. Over time, this results in blockage of urine flow, causing pain, straining, and discomfort in the lower abdomen or flanks. Improper detoxification, dehydration, and wrong feeding habits in pets create the ideal environment for stone formation and recurring urinary issues.

Herbal Remedies for Renal Calculi in Domestic Animals By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a trusted global brand offering pure, natural, and effective Ayurvedic herbal products. All formulations are made from standardised extracts under the guidance of expert Ayurvedic doctors. The products are 100% pure, chemical-free, and manufactured in GMP-certified facilities. Planet Ayurveda combines ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern quality standards. The brand is known for its authentic herbs, disease-specific formulations, and worldwide delivery. Planet Ayurveda continues to promote natural healing and healthy living across the globe.

In this article, we will discuss some herbal formulations for the management of Kidney Stones in domestic animals. Let’s Start!

1. Niere Vet Powder
2. Odem Vet Tablet
3. Mutrakrichantak Churna
4. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules

Product Description

1. Niere Vet Powder

Planet Ayurveda’s Niere Vet Powder helps manage kidney stones in domestic animals through a synergistic blend of herbs rich in diuretic, lithotriptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant compounds. Crataeva nurvala (Varun) contains lupeol that helps break down urinary stones and improves bladder tone, while Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumi Amla) is rich in phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, known for their stone-dissolving and anti-crystallisation effects. Tribulus terrestris (Gokshur) provides Protodioscin that enhances urine flow and reduces mineral aggregation, and Cichorium intybus (Kasani) offers chicoric acid, supporting detoxification and kidney function. Herbs like Albizia lebbeck (Shirish) and Moringa oleifera (Shigru) supply Quercetin and Glucosinolates & Isothiocyanates that reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, while Achyranthes aspera (Apamarg) and Boerhavia diffusa (Punarnava) contribute Achyranthine and punarnavine that promote diuresis and help flush out small stones naturally.

Dosage: 5 gms twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 15 gms twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

2. Odem Vet Tablet

Odem Vet Tablet by Planet Ayurveda helps in the management of kidney stones in domestic animals by leveraging the therapeutic action of its potent phytochemicals. Pippali (Piper longum) and Marich (Piper nigrum) contain piperine, which enhances the absorption of other herbs and reduces inflammation around the urinary tract, easing discomfort caused by stones. Sonth (Zingiber officinale) provides gingerols and shogaols that reduce oedema, relax urinary passages, and aid smoother stone movement. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is rich in chebulinic and chebulagic acids that help prevent crystallization, support detoxification, and protect kidney tissues from oxidative damage. Nishotha (Operculina turpethum), with its resin glycosides like turpethin, assists in clearing metabolic wastes and reducing stone-promoting toxins. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) contributes saponins such as protodioscin, known for their diuretic, anti-crystallization, and urinary-soothing effects. Together, these bioactive compounds help reduce stone formation, ease stone passage, and maintain smooth kidney and urinary function in animals.

Dosage: 2 Tablets twice daily (For Dogs, Cats, and Small Pets), 8 Tablets twice daily (For Horses and Big Animals) or as directed by a Physician.

3. Mutrakrichantak Churna

Mutrakrichantak Churna by Planet Ayurveda is highly beneficial for managing kidney stones in domestic animals due to the strong therapeutic action of its phytochemical-rich ingredients. Varun (Crataeva nurvala) contains lupeol and maruline, which help break down urinary calculi and reduce inflammation around the urinary tract. Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri) is rich in lignans like phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, known for their anti-crystallisation activity, helping prevent stone formation and supporting smooth stone expulsion. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) provides saponins—especially protodioscin—that promote diuresis, soothe the urinary tract, and help flush out small stones. Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) offers andrographolide, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that supports kidney detoxification and protects renal tissues from oxidative stress.

Dosage: 5 gms twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 15 gms twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

4. Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules

Phyllanthus Niruri Capsules by Planet Ayurveda are highly effective for managing kidney stones in domestic animals due to the strong litholytic and renal-protective compounds found in Bhumi Amla (Phyllanthus niruri). This herb contains potent lignans such as phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin, which inhibit crystal formation, reduce stone size, and prevent mineral aggregation in the urinary tract. Its alkaloids and flavonoids help relax urinary smooth muscles, enabling easier passage of stones while reducing pain and inflammation. The herb’s natural diuretic action enhances urine output, promoting the effortless flushing of small calculi and metabolic waste. With strong antioxidant properties, it also protects kidney tissues from oxidative damage commonly associated with stones.

Dosage: 1 Capsule twice daily (for dogs, cats, and small pets), 2 Capsules twice daily (for horses and large animals), or as directed by the physician.

Conclusion

Renal calculi in domestic animals are common yet manageable conditions when diagnosed early and treated holistically. Conventional veterinary care combined with Ayurvedic principles offers an effective approach to dissolving stones, reducing inflammation, and preventing recurrence. Ayurvedic herbs like Varuna (Crataeva nurvala), Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris), Bhumi Amalaki (Phyllanthus niruri), and Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) support renal function, improve urine flow, and help maintain electrolyte balance. Along with herbal formulations, proper hydration, dietary modifications, and routine monitoring play a crucial role in long-term kidney health. Integrating Ayurveda with modern veterinary science ensures a comprehensive, natural, and animal-friendly management of urinary stones.