Vet Notes : cats
← Return to ListHappy Cats, Healthy Bladders
Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is a commonly diagnosed medical condition in veterinary practice. This frustrating and sometimes devastating disease can be a challenge for the veterinarian and the pet owner alike.
It seems that the more we study this disease, the more questions we have about how it gets started and how best to prevent it.
Most researchers believe that symptoms of lower urinary tract disease can be minimized or prevented by some simple changes in the environment and diet.
It is critical to provide cats with the ideal litter box experience. Cats that do not have their ideal litter box may avoid the litter box, holding their urine longer than typical which allows it to become more concentrated, or may begin urinating or defecating outside the box even without FLUTD. Provide more litter boxes than the number of cats in the household (if you have 3 cats, you should have 4 boxes). Most cats prefer the clumping type of litter, but you can find out which your cat prefers by offering 3 or 4 options at one time and seeing which box is used. Scoop the box daily at least and empty and wash it weekly (this is especially important if your cat is avoiding the box or having a flare-up of urinary tract problems). Most commercial litter boxes are not large enough. Try using an under the bed storage container or a sweater storage box.
The most critical factor in dietary management of urinary tract disease is the use of canned or wet foods. The high water content of the food will help dilute the urine, which prevents development of crystals and stones. Look for our canned products wherever our dry foods are sold.
If your cat is spending a lot of time in the litter box or avoiding the litter box altogether, contact your veterinarian right away. Male cats can develop blockages of the urethra, which traps the urine in the bladder. This is a life-threatening medical emergency.
Please note that this information does not replace onsite, professional, veterinary care. It is solely for educational purposes. Your pet's medical condition should be evaluated by a veterinarian before any medical decisions are implemented. If there is a potentially life-threatening emergency involving your pet, take your pet to a veterinarian or veterinary facility immediately.
Veterinary Technical Services Department