Feline lower urinary
tract disease (FLUTD)
The urinary tract
MetPet.com Staff Writer
Also known as feline urologic syndrome or FUS, this relatively common
disease is caused primarily by struvite crystals which form in the bladder
causing inflammation, bleeding and obstruction of the urine. In the
most extreme cases of urinary blockage, this is a life-threatening disease.
Struvite crystal formation is encouraged by an alkaline
(high pH) urine. On the other hand, oxalate crystals that form in the
bladder are discouraged by alkaline conditions. Diagnosis consists of
a physical exam, urinalysis or blood tests for the presence of toxins that
indicate kidney destruction. For obstructions, intravenous fluids are
used to dilute the level of toxins in the blood and a catheter is inserted
to remove the crystals and allow the normal flow of urine.
Causes of FLUTD could include viruses, bacterial
infection, physical abnormality, urine retention, insufficient water
consumption, stress, over consumption of minerals in the diet, obesity and frequent
nibbling. Although both males and females are susceptible, male cats,
with narrower urinary systems, are more prone to life-threatening
obstructions. Males that are unusually prone to FLUTD can have a
perineal urethrostomy to widen the urinary opening in an effort to avoid
serious blockage. Obese cats are more prone to recurring FLUTD.
Diets that consist primarily of dry kibble that is high in
magnesium and ash (minerals) and low in acidity are suspected of causing
FLUTD. Milk that is rich in calcium and minerals can also encourage
FLUTD. Frequent eating during the day encourages alkaline urine so
meals should be limited to 1 or perhaps 2 a day. Cats should be
encouraged to drink more water or eat more moisture rich foods in order to
dilute the urine.
There are prescription kibble (dry) diets that are available from
veterinarians but there is much controversy about these products since they
are dry. Since lack of moisture in the diet can be a cause of this
disease a high quality canned (wet) food provides 700-800% more moisture
than dry food. Excess carbohydrates in dry food are also suspects in
this disease.
Cats without easy access to clean litterboxes could retain
urine so additional litterboxes, automatic ones or more frequent cleaning
and changing of the litter can encourage more regular usage.
FLUTD can be the cause of litterbox problems as urination
becomes painful, irritating or impossible. Symptoms can include
litterbox accidents, blood in the urine, excessive licking of the area,
painful crying, irritability, loss of appetite, etc.
FLUTD can recur even with proper diet and care. |
