About 5 percent of all cats suffer from bladder problems at some point in their lives. Depending upon the cause, treatments vary, but the symptoms are often similar. Common bladder problem symptoms include straining in the litter box, limited urine production, blood in the urine or avoidance of the litter box. Often referred to under the general term feline urinary syndrome (FUS) bladder problems can develop into a serious condition, particularly for male cats.
-
Bacterial and Viral Infections
-
Viruses and bacteria can cause bladder infections. The bladder should be a sterile environment. When it's not, infection occurs. Bladder infections often strike older cats, but it's not unheard of in cats younger than 10 years of age. Ongoing bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the bladder wall and increase the chances of bladder stones or crystals. A rapid change in urinary pH can precipitate a bladder infection, so feed a high-quality, low-ash food. For cats with recurrent infections, avoid dry food in favor of non-fish canned food.
Stones or Crystals
-
Crystals can form in your cat's urine, causing painful urination. Urinary crystals or stones can develop into a serious situation, particularly in male cats. The stones can block the passage of urine---this is a potentially fatal condition as toxins build up and cause organ failure. Immediate catheterization or surgery may be indicated. Milder cases of bladder stones may be controlled with a low-ash diet.
Idiopathic Cystitis
-
Idiopathic cystitis is a general term for feline lower urinary tract disease---any condition that shows signs of "irritative voiding" or, in common terms, when it hurts to pee. This condition may be related to stress, inflammation of the bladder or urethra or a minor obstruction. Many cases resolve without treatment in five to seven days. Allow your cat more access to the outdoors if that's possible, and be sure she has a safe, secluded resting area.
Trauma or Injury
-
If your cat has been injured---fallen or been struck by a car, for example---it may begin to suffer from recurrent bladder problems. Nerve or muscle damage can impact your cat's ability to urinate and this buildup of urine can increase a cat's susceptibility to infection. Surgical options can be considered, but many cat owners have reported good results with acupuncture. If your cat shows signs of incontinence, additional litter boxes can help.
Diagnosis
-
When you suspect a bladder problem, your veterinarian will give your cat a thorough examination. Urine cultures will be taken, either from a sample that you provide or via a needle aspiration. After a thorough analysis, a diagnosis will be made and proper treatment recommended. If the results are negative or inconclusive, monitor your cat closely and follow the dietary recommendations.
Treatment
-
Bacterial infections are treated with a course of antibiotics. For severe stones with blockage, a catheter may be inserted to clear the urethra. Some cats have chronic urinary tract and bladder problems and these cats should receive regular urine cultures. A prescription diet may prevent any further outbreaks. Always keep the litter box spotless---if your cat refuses to use it on a regular basis, it could trigger an infection which could, in turn, stimulate crystal formation.
Prevention
-
Bladder problems are often the result of a diet that contains too much ash. There are special prescription diets available through your veterinarian, or you can purchase low-ash foods at a feed store. Read labels carefully; ash content is listed in the guaranteed analysis. Canned cat foods are often lower in ash, especially if they do not contain fish. Always provide unlimited fresh water for your cat.
-