One of the most common health problems in cats is lower urinary tract disease. Understanding the different causes and symptoms is essential to ensure prompt treatment.
Our feline companions are prone to lower urinary tract problems. There are a number of reasons for this, some of which can be resolved by making a few lifestyle changes. It is important to understand why and how urinary tract problems occur, and what the signs and symptoms are.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be obstructive or non-obstructive. In the first case, obstructions (urolithiasis) present in the form of calcium oxalate stones and struvite crystals.
Due to their narrow urethras, men are more susceptible to calcium oxalate stones, which may require surgical removal.
In chronic cases, perineal urethrostomy surgery may be necessary as a last resort; this involves shortening the urethra to allow for better urine flow. Females are more likely to have struvite crystals, which can be dissolved through diet.
Urethral plugs are hard, soft masses made up of crystals, mucous proteins, and cellular debris, which can result from chronic inflammation.
What causes urinary tract disease?
The causes of urinary problems in cats are as varied as the methods of treatment and can be medical or behavioral. In some cases, a specific cause may not be found, and the problem is called “feline idiopathic cystitis”.
Stress is often a big culprit in the development of urinary tract problems. A detailed study called it the “Pandora syndrome,” pointing to a variety of non-medical factors such as lack of stimulation and exercise in indoor cats; excess body weight; genetic predisposition; and interactions with other cats in the house.
Lack of food moisture is another main cause. Cats that eat poor quality dry food are more susceptible to urinary tract problems, especially since felines don’t normally drink a lot of water. According to veterinarian Dr Jean Hofve, dry foods “contribute to overall dehydration and high urine concentration. Cats with lower urinary tract symptoms should not be fed dry food at all. She adds that canned, raw, or homemade foods help keep urine diluted, which minimizes irritation and reduces the risk of crystals or stones forming. “It’s also better to feed yourself with scheduled meals rather than leaving food available 24/7.”
Improper litter box setup is another potential cause of urinary problems, according to feline behaviorist Amanda Caron. Incorrect placement, the wrong type of box, and not enough boxes for the number of cats in the household are all factors to consider. Consistency, cleanliness, litter preference — and patience — are key to a successful resolution, Amanda says.
Treat urinary tract problems
A blockage is often resolved with catheterization and fluids, but this is only the beginning. Treatment also often involves the use of anti-inflammatories, whether conventional or herbal and nutritional. Steroids can be used for severe inflammation, as well as urinary acidifiers, although both should only be used in the short term. The use of antibiotics has fallen out of favor among experts, says Dr. Hofve.
“Antioxidant vitamins such as C and E, which are also helpful in times of stress, are indicated,” she says, adding that vitamin C should be in the form of sodium ascorbate or Ester-C, and vitamin E in dl-alpha. as tocopherol, not d-alpha tocopherol, which is synthetic). “Other antioxidants…may also be helpful, due to their anti-inflammatory action. Herbs such as slippery elm, horsetail and quackgrass have helped some cats. Many cats have done well with co- enzyme Q10, which prevents inflammation at the cellular level.Other alternative therapies that help rebalance the cat’s body may include acupuncture, homeopathy and Chinese herbs.
Diet is also very important. Look for high-quality canned foods or a raw or homemade diet, and offer plenty of fresh, pure water. If your cat isn’t drinking enough, consider investing in a pet fountain – cats are often attracted to running water.
Dr. Hofve stresses the importance of play therapy. “A bored cat can easily turn into a stressed cat,” she writes on her website. “Exercise is a good way to reduce stress as well as weight, given that a large percentage of cats with LUTS [lower urinary tract symptoms] are overweight.
The big takeaway here is that cats never avoid the litter box out of spite. If your cat has started eliminating inappropriately, your job is to determine if it’s a physical or behavioral problem, or both. If you suspect a urinary tract problem, schedule an immediate visit with your veterinarian.
