What is FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease)?
- Also known as Feline Urologic Syndrome (FUS), FLUTD is a group of symptoms that affect the lower urinary tract of a cat.
- Research has shown that approximately 1% of all cats are going to experience FLUTD
- It is more serious in male cats than in female cats because males have narrower urethras.
- Urethral blockages can happen in FLUTD and it is a medical emergency that needs to be treated right away.
- It is a serious condition and can be fatal.
- Read more on urinary crystals in cats symptoms
hat Causes FLUTD?
There are many possible causes of FLUTD, but the exact mechanisms that lead up to the disease are unknown. Some risk factors that can lead to the development of the condition, they include:
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Multiple cat households
- Bacterial infections
- Urinary stones
Catching the symptoms early on can help to save the animal’s life.
Symptoms of FLUTD in Cats
- Strain in urinating – cats may take a long time to urinate and they may also urinating in small amounts
- Hematuria – Cats may show bloody urine or reddish colored urine
- Increased frequency of urination
- Excessive licking of the genitals – can result from discomfort in the genitals in relation to the urinary tract
- Incontinence or urinating in places other than its litter box
- Sudden cessation in use of litter box
- Crying in or around the litter box area
How to Treat FLUTD in Cats
- Bladder relief – if cats are experiencing a urinary blockage, vets will need to relieve the bladder distention
- Catheterization – It is another way to remove blockages, relieve bladder distention, and to help facilitate other treatments.
- Fluid therapy
- Surgery – done in male cats that experience repetitive instances of FLUTD. It involves widening the urethra to help facilitate urine flow.
- Antimicrobial treatments – Given to cats that have FLUTD caused by an infection.