top of page

Unveiling the Silent Threat: Understanding Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Updated: Feb 6

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) poses a serious health risk for cats nationwide, affecting felines of all ages and breeds. Many cat owners overlook this condition, not realizing that it can lead to severe pain or even life-threatening issues if left untreated. This blog post provides insight into FLUTD, outlining its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventative measures. By enhancing your understanding of FLUTD, you can ensure a better quality of life for your furry friends.


What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease?

Close-up view of a cat drinking water from a bowl
Filtered water can help prevent urinary tract issues in cats.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease encompasses a variety of conditions that affect the bladder and urethra in cats. These conditions include stressed induced cystitis (inflammation of the bladder), urinary stones, urethral obstruction, and urinary tract infections. According to experts, the prevalence of FLUTD can be as high as 10% among cats presented to veterinary clinics. Recognizing the unique symptoms in each cat is vital for early diagnosis and treatment.



Causes of FLUTD


The causes of FLUTD can be diverse. Here are some of the most common contributors:


  • Stress: Changes in a cat's environment can elevate stress. For instance, relocating to a new home or introducing another pet can trigger anxiety, not enough litter boxes, litter boxes not being cleaned routinely, thus increasing the likelihood of FLUTD.


  • Diet: A poor diet can lead to serious health issues. Cats that eat mostly dry food may not drink enough water, causing concentrated urine and higher risks of crystal and stone formation. Research indicates that diets high in magnesium can increase the risk of urinary issues significantly.


  • Obesity: Studies show that roughly 40% of cats in the U.S. are considered overweight. Excess weight can put extra pressure on the bladder, increasing the risk of urinary problems.


  • Infections and Inflammation: Bacteria or inflammation in the bladder can cause painful urination. In severe cases, studies have indicated that over 60% of cats diagnosed with FLUTD may experience recurring infections.


Understanding these causes enables cat owners to take proactive steps to prevent FLUTD.


Symptoms to Watch For


Timely intervention relies on recognizing the symptoms of FLUTD. Common signs to look out for include:

Cat sitting in their litter box

  • Frequent attempts to urinate with little success.

  • Straining to urinate or vocalizing while urinating.

  • Blood in the urine.

  • Excessive licking of the genital area.

  • Inappropriate urination, such as outside the litter box.


Should you observe any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately.


Diagnosis


To diagnose FLUTD accurately, your veterinarian will start with a comprehensive physical exam and a review of your cat's medical history. Common diagnostic tests include:


  • Urinalysis: This checks for infection, crystals, or blood in the urine.

  • Radiographs or Ultrasound: These methods identify urinary stones or other abnormalities in the bladder.

  • Bloodwork: This evaluates kidney values and detects electrolyte imbalances.


The diagnosis will inform the tailored treatment plan.


Treatment Options


Treatment for FLUTD depends on its underlying cause. Common approaches include:


  • Increased hydration: Encourage your cat to drink more water. A cat should consume around 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per five pounds of body weight daily to help dilute urine and prevent issues.


  • Medications: Depending on diagnosis, medications may include anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, urinary sphincter relaxers or pain relievers.


  • Dietary changes: A diet specifically formulated to dissolve urinary crystals can be effective. Some brands market food that reduces urinary issues by 50% if fed regularly. Hills Science Diet Urinary Stress Care.


  • Surgery: In severe cases involving urinary stones, surgical intervention might be necessary.

    • Perineal Urethrostomy - process to create a new opening for the urinary tract to enhance urinary flow

    • Cystotomy - bladder surgery to remove bladder stones


Following your veterinarian's recommendations is crucial for managing FLUTD effectively. Cats that are unable to urinate properly will need to be unblocked, hospitalized, and possibly undergo surgery.


Prevention Strategies


While not all FLUTD cases can be prevented, you can reduce risks through several strategies:


  • Encourage hydration: Always provide fresh water. Wet cat food can also help increase fluid intake.


  • Stress reduction: Create a stable, clean and calming environment. Provide hiding spots and maintain a consistent routine to ease anxiety. Place Feliway plug-ins throughout the household or in the common areas where your cat lives.


  • Healthy weight management: Keeping your cat active and ensuring they maintain a healthy diet can prevent weight-related issues that lead to urinary problems.


  • Regular veterinary check-ups: Routine visits help catch and address urinary issues early.


Understanding the Importance of Awareness


Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease is a complex issue that can silently affect your beloved cat. By grasping its causes and recognizing the symptoms, you can take proactive steps to promote your pet's health. Regular hydration, proper diet, and stress management help enhance your cat's quality of life.


If you suspect any urinary health concerns, reach out to a veterinarian. Timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so let’s commit to safeguarding our furry friends from this hidden threat.

bottom of page