How are gallstones diagnosed in dogs and cats?

The vet will typically start with a blood chemistry panel and CBC, then use abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder and bile ducts. X-rays, CT scans, or fine-needle aspiration may be added for confirmation if needed.

Can gallstones be dissolved with diet or medication?

In some cases, once the nature of the stones is established, a specialised prescription diet or medication may be used to manage the condition. Ongoing imaging and blood test monitoring is required — follow your vet's recommendations for treatment planning.

Will surgery or an interventional procedure be needed?

The need for surgery depends on the stone's location, degree of obstruction, and presence of infection. Your vet will discuss the most appropriate course of action based on test results and your pet's overall condition.

What does a vet visit and workup generally cost?

Costs vary considerably depending on the tests and treatment required — from basic blood work and ultrasound through to surgical intervention. It is advisable to ask the clinic for an estimate in advance.

How much do the tests and treatment for this condition usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Gallstones in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Imaging Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Gallstones can cause bile duct obstruction and inflammation. Ultrasound confirms the diagnosis; small stones may respond to medication, while larger ones may require surgery.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, ACVIM, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek emergency care immediately

•Persistent vomiting with inability to eat or drink
•Visible yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
•Markedly lethargic or unresponsive

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Repeated vomiting but still able to take small amounts of food or water
•Noticeably decreased appetite or reduced activity level
•Showing clear discomfort when the abdomen is touched

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Gallstones in dogs and cats typically present with digestive and hepatobiliary symptoms, which may be intermittent or progressively worsening.

Repeated or persistent vomiting that does not improve after feeding
Yellow discolouration of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Abdominal tenderness or reluctance to be touched
Elevated body temperature, lethargy, or depression
Decreased appetite and noticeably reduced activity

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Continuous vomiting with inability to eat or drink
⚠️ Obvious yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin
⚠️ Marked drowsiness or unresponsiveness

02How to Monitor at Home and Know When to Go to the Emergency Vet

Keeping detailed notes at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and plan the necessary tests.

Record the number of vomiting episodes, timing, and appearance of the vomit
Measure and record body temperature daily (ear or rectal thermometer)
Observe changes in alertness, interaction, and activity level
Note changes in appetite, food intake, and meal times
Record urination and defecation frequency, stool colour, and any signs of pain during defecation

03How Does the Vet Diagnose This? Common Diagnostic Tests

The vet will primarily use blood tests and imaging to assess liver and gallbladder function and check for bile duct obstruction or inflammation.

Complete blood count (CBC)

to assess infection or anaemia

Blood chemistry panel

to evaluate liver and gallbladder-related values

Abdominal ultrasound

preferred imaging to assess the gallbladder and bile ducts

Abdominal X-ray

to detect calcified stones or positional changes

Cytology or fine-needle aspiration

to identify inflammation or haemorrhagic changes

Bacterial culture or advanced imaging (CT) if needed

04How Is This Treated After Diagnosis? Medication, Diet & Care Guide

Treatment depends on test results and may include medication, dietary adjustments, or interventional procedures, with regular follow-up monitoring.

Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications based on test findings
Prescription diet to reduce stress on the bile system and liver
Discussion of whether surgery or endoscopic intervention is needed to address the stones
Regular follow-up visits to monitor blood values and imaging changes
Home care includes administering medications on schedule and monitoring symptoms
Return promptly for a check-up or seek specialist care if symptoms worsen or change

05What Should You Prepare Before the Vet Visit? Key Information to Help Your Vet

Note the onset time, frequency, and progression of symptoms

Record the number of vomiting episodes, vomit contents, and accompanying symptoms

Bring recent feeding records and food details (brand/ingredients)

Prepare a list of current medications, known allergies, and medical history

Share any videos or photos with your vet for reference

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.