Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease: Painful but Treatable

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, more commonly known at FLUTD, is a group of diseases that can occur in the bladder and urethra of cats. It is also refered to as Feline Uroloic Syndrome (FUS), Lower Urinary Tract Disease (LUTD) or Cystitis ("inflammed bladder"). Many things can cause this disease, but more often that not the cause is unknown and cannot be found.

Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder. It can be caused by a bacterial infection or from crystals irritating the wall of the bladder. If it is not treated, it can progress to the kidneys. Your veterinarian will most likely prescribe antibiotics, and it should resolve itself in a few days.

Urolithiasis is when stones form in the bladder. There are two types of stones that cats can suffer from: struvite crystals and calcium oxalate crystals. Struvite forms when the urine has a pH that is too basic, and oxalate forms when the urine has a pH that is too acidic.

Urethral obstruction happens when crystals in the bladder mix together with other things to form a paste-like plug that blocks the urethra in male cats. A catheter must be inserted to relieve the cat of the obstruction. If you suspect your cat has an obstruction, seek veterinary attention immediately. It can be fatal if you wait.

Cats suffering from FLUTD often have difficulty or pain when urinating, increased frequency of urination, bloody urine, urinating outside of the litter box, crying while in the litter box, frequent licking of the genital area, anorexia, vomiting or hiding. The disease is most frequently found in overweight, middle-aged indoor cats who eat a dry diet and very rarely (if at all) go outside. Persian cats are predisposed to the disease, and although it can be found equally in both males and females, neutered males are the most susceptible. Urinary tract obstruction has a larger risk in males, as well.

To prevent your cat from getting any form of FLUTD, keep your cat active and at a healthy weight. The litter box should be cleaned daily, if not more, and fresh water should be available at all times. If the cat drinks enough water, it will dilute the urine enough so no blockage or crystals can form. Also, make sure you are feeding the proper food for your cat. If a cat has had a FLUTD episode in the past, it is wise to have a urinalysis and an examination done every six months by a veterinarian.