Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a term used to describe conditions that can affect the urinary bladder of cats. Cats of any age can have problems with their lower urinary tracts although some cats are more prone to urinary tract issues than others.

Here are some signs that indicate your cat could have a FLUTD.

Symptoms

FLUTD can be uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous for your cat. Here are some signs that may indicate that your cat has urinary tract issues.

• Abdominal pain
• Behavioural changes, like restlessness, hiding or refusal to eat
• Frequent urination, but only in small amounts
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Blood in the urine
• Straining to urinate
• Increased licking of urinary opening

If you do notice these symptoms, you should call your vet to discuss if your cat needs immediate medical attention.

Causes of FLUTD

There are several reasons for urinary tract problems in cats, and these include the following.

• A bacterial infection in the bladder or urethra
• Urinary crystals that can form  urinary stones in your cat’s bladder
• Diabetes
• Thyroid issues
• And in rare cases, tumours

Your vet will usually perform  blood and urine tests to diagnose these conditions and ensure the correct course of treatment is taken.

Treatment for FLUTD

Your cat’s treatment will differ depending on the severity and specific diagnosis but it may include some of the following actions.

• Providing plenty of clean, fresh water including canned food to increase water intake
• Do not give any extra treats, food scraps or vitamin supplements
• Encourage exercise
• Keep the litter pan clean and fresh
• Periodic urinalyses to manage the disease
• A course of antibiotics
• Clearing obstructions in the urethra
• Special diet to modify the urine chemistry
• Treatments for other health problems such as cancer or thyroid issues.

 

Karingal Vet Hospital – Lower Urinary Tract Disease in Cats

If you believe your cat might have urinary tract issues seek advice from your vet as soon as possible. Feel free to call Karingal Vet Hospital on (03) 9789 3444 or book an appointment online today.