A subsequent videoendoscopic examination of his urinary bladder (called cystoscopy, pictured above) revealed multiple abrasions of the bladder’s mucosal lining, which resulted from the presence of a rough-surfaced stone. | Photo: Harry Werner

History: An owner reported that a 14-year-old Warmblood gelding would stop intermittently while working under saddle. While he displayed no colic signs, his owner noticed occasional episodes of dark-brown urine. He had no fever, and his appetite was normal.

Examination: The veterinarian deemed the horse’s physical examination unremarkable. He did not resent pressure over his back, and he showed no lameness.

Ancillary Diagnostics: The practitioner then turned to urinalysis and urine bacterial culture, which revealed blood but no evidence of infection. The horse’s complete blood count and serum chemistry panel were normal