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Urinarias

Feline idiopathic cystitis

Inflammation of the cat's bladder with no identifiable infectious cause, strongly linked to stress. It is the most common cause of urinary problems in cats. In males it can lead to urinary obstruction, which is FATAL.

Severe🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY if a cat (especially a male) strains and CANNOT pass any urine: an obstructed bladder can cause death within 24-48h. For any straining when urinating, see the vet the same day.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Straining and pain when urinating (crying in the litter tray)
  • • Blood in the urine
  • • Urinating outside the litter tray
  • • Excessive licking of the genital area
  • • Frequent trips to the litter tray passing little urine
  • • OBSTRUCTION (a male unable to pass any urine): LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY

Causes

Multifactorial, strongly linked to stress (changes at home, conflict with other cats, boredom). Contributing factors: overweight, sedentary lifestyle, low water intake, unsuitable litter tray.

Diagnosis

The vet rules out infection, crystals and stones (urine analysis, ultrasound). It is a diagnosis of exclusion.

Treatment

Reducing stress is key (environmental enrichment, pheromones, more litter trays). Increase water intake (wet food, water fountains). Pain control during flare-ups. If there is an OBSTRUCTION, it is an emergency: it must be relieved immediately.

Prevention

Reduce stress, wet food, water fountains, enough clean litter trays (the N+1 rule), a healthy weight, daily play.

When should you see the vet?

LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY if a cat (especially a male) strains and CANNOT pass any urine: an obstructed bladder can cause death within 24-48h. For any straining when urinating, see the vet the same day.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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