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VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 |
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Excessive cleaning of the genital area Spraying Poor appetite Lethargy or depression Vomiting Veterinary Treatment A cat with an obstruction needs intravenous fluids and urinary catheterization. A small catheter (narrow tube) is passed into the urethra and then into the bladder. The catheterized cat is hospitalized for at least 24 hours to ensure no obstruction recurrence. Catheterization usually relieves the obstruction, but other procedures, including surgery, may be necessary. Antibiotics may be given to combat bacteria, and drugs that help restore bladder function may be required. Ongoing and Preventive Care Cats who have been diagnosed with FLUTD must be monitored for the rest of their lives, as they are predisposed to recurrence of crystals. For cats recovering from urethral obstruction, the first few weeks back home from the hospital are critical because obstruction recurrence is most common during this time. If your cat was diagnosed with struvite crystals, this will initially be treated with a prescription diet to reduce the pH level of the urine and dissolve the crystals. Once your cat's urine pH level is normal, your vet will prescribe a maintenance diet to maintain the pH level. Mineral deposits have a greater tendency to form in highly-concentrated urine held in the bladder for long periods. Two of the most important things you can do to encourage regular urination are to make sure that your cat is drinking plenty of water and to keep the litter box clean. To encourage your cat to drink more, consider purchasing a water fountain, such as the Drinkwell Pet Fountain. Many cats prefer moving water, and will increase their water intake when drinking is "a game." You can also give your cat supplemental water mixed into canned food, as I do for my FLUTD kids. I mix 1/4 cup of distilled water into their wet food twice a day. All three really enjoy their mealtime "soup." Many veterinarians and people who live with FLUTD kitties believe that cats with FLUTD should never be fed dry food, as it does not convey adequate moisture. Although FLUTD is a serious disease, requiring immediate diagnosis and treatment, it can usually be controlled with proper ongoing care. Bleys, Merlin, and Caine are all doing fine, and are happy to report they have no crystals in their urine at the present time. |
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My time as an FFR volunteer has been more fulfilling than I ever could have imagined. While I started with somewhat superficial motives, I found something far more substantial through my volunteer work. (For those wondering, I did find my cat-loving sweetheart and I'm happy to say he is becoming more and more involved with FFR as well.) |
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