Feline Urinary Tract Problems

Cats have historically experienced urinary tract problems. There are several factors that can contribute to this tendency. One of the more common aspects thought to contribute to feline urinary tract problems is stress, but other factors can lead to conditions that adversely affect the bladder and urethra, such as diet and bacterial infections.

  1. Facts

    • The general term for these conditions is known as cystitis. This term refers to any irritation of the bladder. More specific references used by veterinary professionals include feline urinary syndrome and feline lower urinary tract disease. These conditions lead to irritation of the bladder, which results in the appearance of crystals, acidic imbalances and, in some cases, blood in the urine of the cat.

    Common Symptoms

    • Cats with this problem will have trouble urinating, causing them to strain when attempting to urinate. Blood can also appear in the urine in more severe cases. Male cats will develop blockage in the urethra more often than females, due to the narrower circumference of the urethra in males. This blockage is caused by a build-up of certain types of crystals in the urine. These crystals can develop into stones in the bladder, which can be removed surgically. Severe obstruction can be fatal if not treated within in 48 hours.

    Treatment

    • Many vets increase water intake in the cat as a first step. This helps to flush out any blockage in the bladder and lower the minerals that can build up in the urine. These minerals are often derived from dry cat foods, which contain a high amount of ash from the manufacturing process. Dry food also has more fiber content, which absorbs any liquid in the cat's urinary tract and complicates the condition. Canned food is generally recommended, as well as adding some water to this food.

    Acid as a Contributing Factor

    • The acidic imbalance that results from urinary problems in cats is generally the focus of veterinary treatment. Sturvites are a particular type of crystal that develops in the urinary tract, and these crystals usually dissolve in urine that has a proper pH balance. Alkaline levels in a healthy cat take care of much of the crystal formation, and there are special cat foods available that can help to restore a normal pH balance to treat an existing problem, as well as help prevent recurrence of the condition.

    Other Related Problems

    • Severe and long-lasting urinary tract problems can lead to kidney damage. The inability to evacuate the bladder will cause the urine to back up into the kidneys. Hospitalization might be necessary to treat this condition by inserting a catheter into the urethra to help pass the urine. Return visits and hospitalization might be necessary in some cases so that intravenous fluids can be administered to prevent toxemia and kidney failure.