What is Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder?
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder, or FLUTD, is a condition that worries many cat owners. This problem can affect cats in various ways, but it only affects less than 3% of all cats.
FLUTD is seen in both male and female cats, but males have a higher risk due to possible urethra blockages. It usually occurs in cats between 2 and 7 years old and stress often triggers it, like changes at home or severe weather.
Symptoms of FLUTD
Cats with FLUTD might frequently go to the litterbox, strain while urinating, urinate in small amounts, or lick their genitals more often. You might also see blood in their urine. Sometimes, cats associate the pain with the litter box and may try to urinate elsewhere.
Blockages Can Lead to Kidney Failure
It's crucial to act fast when you spot these symptoms. Blockages can cause harmful toxins to build up and may lead to kidney failure within 24 hours.
Understanding Cystitis and Bladder Stones
Most FLUTD cases are due to idiopathic cystitis, which is bladder inflammation without a known cause. Sometimes, other issues like behavior disorders or stones may be involved.
Only about 20% of cases involve bladder stones, divided equally between struvite and calcium oxalate stones. Stones can sometimes be dissolved with diet or be removed by surgery.
Proper Diet for FLUTD
Special diets can help dissolve stones and prevent them from coming back. These diets must be obtained from a veterinarian and monitored by them. Wet food is better than dry for cats with FLUTD.
In one study, 90% of cats eating canned food were symptom-free for a year compared to 60% on dry food. Dry foods increase the risk of dehydration and concentrated urine, which can lead to stone formation.
Treatment Options for FLUTD
- Antibiotics: Sometimes used to reduce inflammation, despite bacteria being rare.
- Diet Changes: Canned or homemade foods help keep urine diluted.
- Medication: Amitriptyline might be used for long-term treatment, though its safety is uncertain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery might be needed for male cats who repeatedly block.
Other treatments, such as cranberry extract, antioxidants, and flower essences, might also be helpful.
Holistic therapies, like acupuncture and herbs, can help address underlying causes and promote overall health. Every cat needs a tailored plan, but avoiding dry food is essential for cats with FLUTD.