Skip to main content

Springfield Veterinary Clinic

Here at Springfield Veterinary Clinic, we aim to serve you, the pet owner, by helping your pet receive the best in quality veterinary care. THANK YOU for allowing us to serve you and your pets for over 40 years!!

Library

Home » Pet Health » Pet Health Library » Library

Cats + Surgical Conditions

  • Xanthine Bladder Stones in Cats

    Xanthine bladder stones are an uncommon type of urinary stone that can occur in both dogs and cats. Xanthine is produced when purines (a component of animal proteins) are broken down within the body. Most cats can further break down xanthine into other substances that are easily excreted, but some cats are deficient in an enzyme that is required for this breakdown to occur. These cats develop elevated levels of xanthine in the urine, resulting in xanthine stones forming within the urinary tract. Xanthine urinary tract stones are typically removed surgically. Affected cats require long-term care to prevent recurrence.