A somewhat common problem among indoor cats is the occurance of urinary tract infections. This is also professionally known as Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). There are several symptoms to watch for as the infection in the cat’s bladder causes him/her to urinate very frequently with only a few drops of urine each time; cat’s also experience discomfort, traces of blood in the urine, and constipation. Some cat owners have suspected behavioral issues as side affects also include aggressive behavior (especially in male cats) and urinating outside of the litter box.
So what is FLUTD and what causes it? Urinary Tract Disease is an infection affecting the bladder causing production of tiny crystals and blood in the urine. These crystals obstruct the flow of urine and create the painful symptoms mentioned above. Unfortunately, there are not clear reasons why cat’s are susceptible to FLUTD but there are several contributing factors. Indoor cats with little exercise, a diet consisting of mostly dry food and an indoor litter box are most susceptible. Also, neutered and Persian cats are more likely to face this disease.
Here are some signs to look for and healthy tips to reduce your cat’s risk of contracting the urinary tract infection FLUTD.
- Change in appetite and thirst.
- Frequent trips to the litter box
- Excessive licking of the genital area: Urinary tract infections can be painful, burning and even cause blockage in male cats. IMPORTANT NOTE: urinary blockage is life-threatening - If your cat is unable to produce urine, see a veterinarian immediately.
- Behavioral changes such as increased aggression.
- Signs of discomfort while urinating and/or blood in the urine.
- Recent introductions to a new environment, food source, another animal or person, etc.
- Where is the litter-box located? Cats don't like to eat or sleep near the litter box nor do they like it in a high-traffic, noisy areas.
- Reduce stress for your cat: stresses such as abrupt changes in diet, environment, weather, overcrowding, owner stress, or the addition to the household of new pets or people should be minimized if possible.
- Provide a safe, clean, quiet area in which the cat can urinate (reducing overcrowding or bullying by other animals) may help.
- Adjust the cat’s diet: change the diet to canned food or moisten his/her dry food. Supply free access to water and encourage the cat to drink.
- Avoid water containing chlorine.
- Vitamin C acidifies the urine and may prevent the recurrence of bladder stones and bladder infections. Start with a low dose of 100 mg per 10 lbs daily.
- See your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY if your cat is straining to produce urine or is unable to produce. He/she may be blocked with a bladder stone and may need emergency care. It is a good idea to have urine checked for any urinary tract problems. This will help you assess the appropriate solutions to implement.
http://veterinarypetcare.com/urinarytractinfection.html
http://www.fabcats.org/flutd.html
http://vetmedicine.about.com/cs/behavior/a/felinesoiling_p.htm