It is a disease syndrome of cats characterized by the formation of
crystals within the bladder. These crystals cause inflammation,
straining, urinary bleeding, and sometimes life-threatening
obstruction to the normal flow of urine out of the bladder.
Neutered male cats are more prone to developing this life-
threatening obstruction because the urethra becomes narrower after
being neutered.
Related kidney disease or kidney failure may also develop from the
urine backing up in the bladder.
Treatment for this would include: hospitalization, placement of a
urinary catheter, fluid therapy, blood work to check kidney enzymes,
antibiotics, steroids, and any other procedures the veterinarian thinks
is necessary. Medication may help or minimize the problem but
some cases may require surgical attention.
Preventative for this life-threatening syndrome is a urinary diet low
in ash. We offer Eukanuba Low Ph/s diet and the Purina UR diet.
It is important to contact us AS SOON AS you notice any of the
following symptoms:
- Straining to urinate
- Small amounts or no urine at all
- Crying in pain while trying to urinate
- Failure to use litter box
- Blood in the urine
- Urinating in a sink or bath tub
- Lethargic and/or not eating