Cats With Calcium Oxalate Crystals & Treatment

Middle-aged cats are particularly susceptible to developing calcium oxalate crystals, which can form anywhere in the urinary tract or bladder. Left untreated, this condition may become life threatening since an accumulation of crystals may block the passage of urine.

  1. Risk Factors

    • Cats with calcium oxalate crystals tend to have an acidic urinary pH and a high level of calcium in the blood. Certain metabolic disorders may also contribute to crystal formation, including cancer and kidney disease. Corticosteroids and diuretics also increase serum calcium levels.

    Symptoms

    • If the cat seems to be having a painful time urinating or if she is straining to urinate, these may be signs of the problem. Increased frequency of urination and passing blood in the urine are also symptoms.

    Diagnosis

    • Testing includes urinalysis, blood tests, x-rays and ultrasound imaging.

    Dietary Therapy

    • This condition is often resolved with a diet designed to increase urine pH to make it more alkaline and to keep sodium, protein and calcium intake in check.

    Surgical Options

    • Various surgical techniques are used to remove or break apart calcium oxalate crystals. If the stones are small, the vet may attempt to break them up with ultrasonic waves. Sometimes the bladder may be flushed with a saline solution or it can be manually accessed through the abdominal wall and then opened to remove the stones.

    Potassium Citrate Supplements

    • Potassium citrate is sometimes given to increase urine pH and deter future calcium oxalate crystals.