FELINE LOWER URINARY

TRACT DISEASE 

FLUTD

Feline cystitis?

Have you noticed your cat urinating outside of their litter tray? Have you perhaps heard them scratching around in their tray more often than normal? These subtle signs are easily overlooked, but may be indications your feline friend is experiencing discomfort from feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).

What is FLUTD?

FLUTD is a common condition seen in cats of all ages. The most common causes can be 

  • urinary crystals or stones

  • bacterial infection 

  • idiopathic cystitis (the cause of which is unknown but may be precipitated by stress)

Regardless of the cause, symptoms are similar and include; increased frequency of urination, pain or vocalisation during urination, straining, urination in places other than the litter tray, blood in the urine and excessive licking of the genitals. Male cats can develop complete blockage of the urethra, rendering them unable to urinate (a life threatening condition requiring immediate intervention). 

coffin shapes represent struvite crystals found in a urine sample and examined under the microscope


Diagnosis and treatment?

If you notice any changes to your cat’s urinary habits, it is best to have them assessed by a veterinarian. In male cats particularly, it is recommended this occurs as a matter of priority. In most instances, analysis of a urine sample is recommended as the first step. Sometimes medications are started whilst waiting for a sample to be collected to improve comfort.

A urine test will help the vet to 

  • rule in/out a bacterial infection and crystals as factors contributing to your cat’s symptoms

  • allows assessment of the concentrating ability of the kidneys

  • allows quantification of glucose and inflammation. 

Additional diagnostics including imaging of the urinary tract (via X-rays or ultrasound), urine culture and blood tests are recommended in some cases.

Once more information is known about the possible causes of your cat’s urinary symptoms, a treatment plan can be made. This may include specific medications (such as antibiotics in the case of a bacterial infection), or more general supportive measures such as pain relief, anti-inflammatories or supplements to improve bladder health. Sometimes a diet change is recommended. Male cats with urethral obstruction will need to be urgently unblocked by passing a urinary catheter and many require hospitalisation.   

radiographs show mineral formations in the shape of stones - bladder stones


Tips for a happy healthy bladder

General tips for minimising FLUTD episodes include:

  • Providing adequate numbers of appropriately positioned litter trays (one per cat in the household plus an extra is a good rule of thumb) 

  • Ensuring litter tray cleanliness

  • Minimising sources of stress

  • Encouraging hydration by feeding a wet diet or offering a water fountain 

  • Feeding a urinary specific diet if this has been recommended by your vet 

  • Maintaining your cat at a healthy weight (overweight cats are predisposed)