What is FLUTD?
FLUTD or Feline Urinary Tract Disease was formerly called 'feline urologic syndrome' or FUS. It affects the bladder and sometimes the urethra in cats, with a higher percentage of neutered males being affected. The diagnosis of FLUTD covers a broad spectrum of conditions of the urinary tract in cats.
What are the causes of FLUTD?
There are several factors that can contribute to this disease including bacterial or viral infections, trauma, crystals in the urine, bladder stones, tumours of the urinary tract and congenital abnormalities. Although in many cases, the cause is never pinpointed to one specific thing. Some of the many factors that can contribute to the development of FLUTD are:
- Lack of proper hydration – not drinking enough water
- Living in a hard water area
- A poor diet, containing food with a high Ash content
- Too much acidity or alkalinity of the urine
- Stress
Some of the symptoms of FLUTD?
FLUTD is a serious condition if left untreated, causing serious pain, behavioural issues and may well result in death, if left untreated. Signs of FLUTD include:
- Prolonged or frequently squatting or straining in or out of the litter box - some owners confuse this with signs of constipation, so check how much urine is being produced to make sure
- Pain while urinating (meowing or howling)
- Urinating outside of the litter box, often in sinks or baths
- Dark urine or urine containing blood
- Frequent licking of the genital area, often making themselves bald there
- Vomiting – not as a result of hairballs etc.
- Depression and/or general change in character
Some cats that have FLUTD develop crystals in their urine. In male cats this can be very serious as the crystals can block his urethra preventing him from urinating either partially or in extreme cases they can form a total blockage or plug of urethra. If you suspect this seek the help of your Vet IMMEDIATLY, or that of an emergency Vet! At this point only a few hours can separate the difference between a successful outcome and quick recovery and hospitalisation, potential surgery and sometimes even death…
How can FLUTD be managed?
If crystals are present in the cat’s urine, then their diet can be changed according to what type of crystals are present. Special diets are often necessary to follow for the life of the cat, including the use of prescription foods such as Hills Prescription Diet or Royal Canin Veterinary Diet; both are available in tins or pouches as well as having a dry food formula. For cats that will not eat these special diets, urinary acidifiers are sometimes added to their current diet, however some of the most up to date thinking and research has shown that putting the cat onto a diet that consists almost exclusively of meat will work (Hodgkins D.M.V, 2008). The use of a specific form of Glucosamine is also sometimes deemed necessary to help alleviate symptoms.
Do all cats recover from FLUTD?
If caught early and properly diagnosed, this condition is easily treated and managed in most cats. Long term management is straight forward as long as you follow your veterinarian's advice strictly, and keep an eye out for signs of any reoccurrence. Cats whose urethra’s become blocked can become very ill quickly and may well develop irreversible kidney damage, which can lead to death.
Unfortunately, cats that have had a single bout of FLUTD are more likely to have repeat bouts. Although surgery is an option in these cases, with care and following a strict diet many of these cats can lead happy and healthy lives for years to come – all it takes is a little effort and vigilance.
©Lovelynx Abyssinians 2007-10