What You Should Know About Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

When it comes to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, a small problem can turn serious quickly. Here’s what you need to know about this health risk.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, also known to as FLUTD, refers to disorders of the urethra and bladder. Problems include difficulty urinating, painful urination, blood in the urine, urinating outside of the litter box, a partial or total blockage of the cat’s urethra, and frequent or abnormal urination.

Thankfully, FLUTD is treatable, but it is important to get your cat to the vet as soon as you notice symptoms so that the condition doesn’t progress or become life-threatening.

Related:

Why is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

Symptoms to Watch For

Knowing how to identify symptoms of FLUTD is your first step in being able to get your cat the care he needs right away. If you notice that your kitty starts exhibiting the following signs, make an appointment with your vet:

    The Causes of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

    Both male and female cats can be affected by FLUTD, but male cats are more susceptible.

    Related:The Most Common Litter Box Mistakes You’re Making

    Causes include:

      Treatment Options

      Again, if your cat is exhibiting any of the symptoms above, it is important to take him to the vet as soon as possible. If there is a urinary blockage, the condition could become life-threatening, leading to kidney failure or rupturing of the bladder. Also, if your cat is obstructed, handle him with care and don’t press on his bladder. Instead, let the vet examine him thoroughly and carefully.

      Once your vet has diagnosed your cat with Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, he will determine the appropriate treatment. Your vet might recommend using medications, such as antibiotics, and you may need to increase the amount of water your cat drinks, as well as change his diet.

      Other treatment options include urinary acidifiers and the expelling of stones through the urethra. If there is a urethral blockage in your male cat, a urinary catheter may be used, or he may need surgery. Surgery may also be recommended if there is a congenital abnormality or if there are large bladder stones or a tumor.

      Dietary Changes

      Depending upon the diagnosis and the types of stones or crystals that your cat suffers with, your vet may recommend some dietary changes to ensure the problem does not recur.

      Certain stones will create an acidic urine, while others will create a more alkaline urine, so your vet will help you modify your cat’s diet, perhaps by using prescription diet formulations, to bring the pH back into balance.

      If your cat has to deal with the persistent presence of urinary crystals that can cause blockages, your vet may also recommend feeding more wet foods and eliminating or reducing the feeding of dry foods. This is because moist foods help flush the bladder and urethra by increasing the volume of urine and diluting the concentration of chemical irritants, substances, and toxins that can create stones and inflammation.

      Maintaining the health of your kitty’s urinary tract is important, so definitely talk to your vet about what steps you can take to prevent problems before they occur. As an informed pet parent, you’ll be able to recognize the signs of problems right away and give your pet the best care for long-term wellness.

      ADVERTISEMENT

      ADVERTISEMENT

      You May Like

      Blossom Headed Parakeet

      With their unique appearance, friendly nature and charming behavior, the Blossom Headed Parakeet is well-loved with a good reason.

      The Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth for Dogs

      A natural alternative for fleas, ticks and other pests and parasites, diatomaceous earth for dogs is a safe and chemical-free treatment for your pooch.

      Facts And Myths About Dog Insurance Policies

      What’s true and what’s false? Let’s clear up some common dog insurance policy questions. Everyone seems to have something to say on the top…

      Greek Harehound

      Developed in Southern Greece, the Greek Harehound is a skilled and fearless hunter with boundless energy and excellent stamina.

      Sallander Rabbit

      The Sallander Rabbit has a coat that looks like it''s been painted by an artist. Sallander Rabbits are known for being lively, active, and skittish.

      American Water Spaniel

      Energetic and sensitive, the American Water Spaniel is a good fit for numerous lifestyles. A water retriever, this dog can be a hunter''s best friend.

      On-Leash Dog Greetings: Yea or Nay?

      Letting your pup greet other dogs while on leash isn''t always fun and games. Keep these tips in mind the next time you''re on a walk.

      Best Snuffle Mats For Dogs

      Snuffle mats are a fun way for your dog to eat and are great for aiding in digestion. Here are our top 11 favorite snuffle mats for dogs!

      Adoptable Dog of the Week – Teela

      We''ve partnered with Adoptapet.com and we''ll feature a new dog that can''t wait to find its forever home. This week''s dog is Teela, a senior Chihuahua Mix.

      Dog Insurance Pros and Cons

      You''ve been antagonizing over the decision of whether or not to buy dog insurance. Let''s go over a few pros and cons of dog insurance.

      Pawsome Cat Products You Can Buy on Etsy

      We love shopping on Etsy! It''s the best place to buy handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts for your kitty.

      Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Quill

      A golden vision, Quill is our Adoptable Dog of the Week. Quill is a female Goldendoodle from Chesapeake City, MD. She is housetrained, good with kids, good w…

      Anglo-Norman Horse

      The Anglo-Norman Horse was developed in France during the early part of the 19th century. Hardworking and patient, the Anglo-Norman is a versatile horse.

      Squeaky Shoes At Dog Park A Huge Hit [Video]

      This is one video I could watch over and over again, and it would still be just as funny. The guys from JStuStudios wanted to see what would happen if they a…

      This Pawesome Portable Bed Is A Dream Come True for Furry Adventurers

      Designed to enable you to bring comfort with you everywhere you go, Spruce bed doubles as a storage for your pet''s stuff, too.