As cat owners, we cherish our feline companions and strive to provide them with the best care possible. However, when it comes to their health, there are certain conditions that you need to be aware of and that require immediate veterinary attention. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), is a term encompassing various disorders affecting the bladder or urethra in cats. Understanding FLUTD is crucial for recognising its symptoms, seeking timely veterinary care, and implementing appropriate management strategies to ensure your cats live healthy lives.
What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?
FLUTD, Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease, refers to a group of disorders affecting the lower urinary tract in cats. The most common disorder within this group is feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), characterised by inflammation of the bladder without a known cause, but stress is believed to be one of the main causes. Additionally, FLUTD can involve the formation of crystals or stones in the urinary tract, leading to various painful ailments for cats. The two primary types of crystals or stones are struvite and calcium oxalate. FLUTD is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention, but with proper treatment and nutrition, cats can recover successfully.
Why is Understanding FLUTD Important?
Inappropriate urination is the leading behavioural problem reported by cat owners, often resulting in cats being surrendered to shelters. Failure to address this issue can impact the cleanliness and safety of your home, as well as strain the bond between you and your cat. Fortunately, many cases of inappropriate urination stem from FLUTD, a treatable medical condition. Recognising the signs of FLUTD and seeking veterinary care can prevent further complications and improve your cat’s quality of life.
Causes of Urinary Tract Disease
FLUTD is a multifactorial disease with various contributing factors. While there’s no single cause, veterinarians have identified certain risk factors associated with the development of FLUTD, including:
- Cats over 1 year of age are most susceptible.
- Overweight cats and lack of exercise.
- History of chronic kidney disease or urinary tract procedures.
- Neutered male cats are at a greater risk of life-threatening urethral obstruction from crystals or stones.
Nutritional Risks
Diet plays a crucial role in feline urinary tract health. Certain minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, found in grocery store brand cat food, can contribute to the formation of crystals in the urine, leading to urinary stones. Additionally, the pH of urine is influenced by diet, with moderately acidic urine being ideal for a healthy urinary tract. Feeding a balanced diet specifically formulated to support urinary health can help prevent the recurrence of FLUTD.
Home Environment Risks
Several environmental factors can increase the risk of FLUTD in cats, including:
- Indoor-only cats.
- Multiple pet households.
- Stress triggers such as house guests, conflicts with other pets, or inadequate resting/hiding places.
- Inadequate water consumption, leading to concentrated urine and increased risk of urinary tract disease.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
It’s essential to recognise the warning signs of FLUTD and seek veterinary care promptly if your cat exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Urinating outside of the litter box.
- Straining or difficulty urinating.
- Blood in the urine.
- Increased frequency of urination.
- Vocalisation or signs of pain during urination.
- Licking the genital area excessively.
- Reduced appetite or lethargy.
Treatment and Management
Treatment of FLUTD involves a multifaceted approach, including dietary changes, increased water consumption, and environmental modifications to reduce stress. Feeding a specialised diet formulated to promote urinary health can help dissolve existing crystals and stones, as well as prevent their recurrence. Additionally, ensuring your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times and providing a stress-free environment can aid in managing FLUTD effectively.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease is a common and potentially serious condition that requires attention from cat owners and veterinary professionals alike. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for FLUTD, cat owners can take proactive steps to safeguard their feline companions’ urinary health and well-being. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to ensuring the best possible outcome for cats affected by FLUTD. If you suspect your cat may be suffering from urinary tract issues, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian for guidance and support.