The examining veterinarian may be able to feel the bladder stones while palpating the cat's bladder. X-rays and ultrasound techniques also may be used to detect the stone's presence, number, size, and location. Other common diagnostic tests include a complete urinalysis, a complete blood cell count, a blood chemistry panel, and a urine culture to check for bacterial infection.
In addition, it is very likely that the veterinarian will order a quantitative urolith analysis. This test will determine which type of bladder stone the cat has; this is important since different types may require different treatment protocols. Knowing the type of stone involved is also important in attempting to prevent stone formation in the future. Some cats may pass very small stones in their urine, which if collected, allow urolith analysis to be performed without surgical retrieval. However, in most cases, the stone, or stones, must be removed surgically for this test to be performed.
