Struvite stones in the cat are almost always formed because of the urinary changes that occur with specific types of bladder infection, almost always a staphylococcal infection but occasionally a Proteus infection.
Struvite crystals are not unusual in normal urine and are usually of no consequence but when they are present in very large amounts together with a Staph or Proteus bladder infection, crystals can congeal into stones. It all begins with a substance called urea. Urea is a waste product generated in the metabolism of protein and it is removed from the body via excretion in urine. When urine is infected with bacteria that are able to digest urea, urea is broken down into ammonia . Ammonia is toxic to the cells of the bladder wall and its presence generates inflammation although the infection present also generates inflammation as well. The proteins released in the inflammatory reaction form a matrix which the struvite crystals use to form an actual stone. The reaction takes place only in an alkaline pH but the presence of ammonia creates just the alkaline pH needed for stone formation. Bacteria capable of digesting urea are called urease positive bacteria and in most cases we are talking about Staphylococci.
This mix rebalances the entire urinary system and aids the assistance of stone removal.
Dosage 5 drops twice daily with a strong smelling food such as sardines.
For Animal Oral Use Only
McDowell's staff Herbalists can not diagnose you or your companions disease or illness. What they can do is offer a herbal program to assist with healing, after you have had advice from your doctor or specialist. If you have unexplained pain or symptoms, seek medical advice.
