Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a common health issue among cats, which can cause pain, discomfort, and potentially life-threatening complications. An umbrella term used to describe various conditions affecting the bladder and urethra of cats, the symptoms of FLUTD may appear suddenly, and the intensity can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening emergencies. Primarily it affects middle-aged and overweight cats, but male cats are also vulnerable due to their narrow urethra, which is more prone to blockages.

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Symptoms Of FLUTD

Recognizing the signs of FLUTD early on is critical for your cat’s health. Here are the most common ones:

Frequent Urination Attempts: Cats with FLUTD often make multiple trips to the litter box, straining to urinate with little to no success.

Painful Urination: Crying, meowing, or vocalizing while trying to urinate may indicate pain.

Blood in Urine: Pink or red-tinged urine can signal a urinary tract issue.

Urinating Outside The Litter Box: Cats may associate the litter box with pain and avoid it, often choosing to urinate in unusual places.

Licking the Genital Area: Excessive grooming of the genital area may be an attempt to relieve discomfort.

Behavioral Changes: Increased restlessness, irritability, and a decreased appetite can also accompany FLUTD.

If you observe any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary assistance. Complete urinary blockage can lead to kidney failure and even death within twenty-four to forty-eight hours if left untreated.

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 What Causes FLUTD?

The exact cause of FLUTD often remains unknown. However, certain factors are known to increase the likelihood of the disease:

Dehydration: Cats on a dry diet may be more susceptible to urinary issues because dry food can lead to dehydration. Cats have a low thirst drive and tend to drink only small amounts of water, relying on their food for hydration. A lack of moisture increases the concentration of minerals in their urine, contributing to crystal and stone formation.

Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle: Overweight cats, especially those with limited exercise, have a higher risk of FLUTD. Extra weight can contribute to stress on the bladder and urinary system.

Stress: Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions in their routine such as moving to a new house, introducing new pets, or environmental changes can trigger stress. Stress has been linked to a variety of health issues, including FLUTD.

Genetics: Some cats may be genetically predisposed to developing urinary problems. Male cats, due to their narrower urethra, are also prone to this health problem.

Infections: While less common, bacterial infections can also cause urinary issues. These are more frequently observed in older cats or those with underlying health conditions, like diabetes.

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How To Diagnose FLUTD?

Veterinarians use a combination of techniques to diagnose FLUTD. If you notice symptoms, your vet may perform:

Urinalysis: A urinalysis can detect blood, crystals, bacteria, and inflammatory cells in the urine.

Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds can help visualize the bladder, identify stones or structural abnormalities, and rule out other conditions.

Blood Tests: Blood tests may be used to assess kidney function, rule out infection, or detect any signs of systemic illness.

Treatment For FLUTD

Since FLUTD can result from various conditions, an accurate diagnosis is key to providing the right treatment. Diet plays a crucial role in managing FLUTD, especially in crystal or stone formation cases. Your vet may prescribe a special urinary diet that encourages hydration, acidifies the urine, and reduces the concentration of minerals to prevent crystal formation. Veterinarians may prescribe pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or antispasmodics to relieve discomfort. In cases of bacterial infections, antibiotics are necessary. In severe cases, such as complete blockages, immediate intervention is needed. A veterinarian may perform catheterization to relieve the obstruction. For recurring cases, surgical options may be considered to prevent further blockages.

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How To Prevent FLUTD In Cats?

Prevention of FLUTD involves the following:

• Regular visits can help detect early signs of urinary issues.
• Choose a diet that includes high-moisture food or add water to dry food to increase hydration.
• Encourage your cat to drink more by using water fountains, placing multiple water bowls around the house, or flavoring water with a touch of tuna juice.
• Avoid obesity through a balanced diet and regular play to reduce the risk of FLUTD.

(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)

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Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.