FLUTD is a condition often associated with the formation of crystals in the urinary tract that can cause numerous painful symptoms for your cat.  In some cats, especially males, the formation of crystals or stones in the lower urinary tract can block the passage of urine.  Without immediate treatment a blocked cat could die.

The two most common types of crystals that form in a cat's urinary tract are struvite and calcium oxalate.

Risk Factors Associated with FLUTD:

• Food - High levels of certain minerals in food can increase the chance of crystal formation.  Food also influences the acidity of urine, which can lead to crystal formation.  High urine pH can produce struvite stones, while low urine pH can produce calcium oxalate stones.

• Behavior - Lack of exercise, confinement indoors, reduced water intake, and even dirty litter trays may cause your cat to urinate less often, which can lead to the development of FLUTD.

• Body Condition - Excess weight also predisposes a cat to FLUTD.

• Gender - Urinary obstruction is more common in neutered male cats.

Signs of FLUTD

FLUTD can be uncomfortable, and if a blockage occurs, extremely dangerous.  Recognizing the typical signs is critical.

• Abnormal urination, including blood in the urine, abnormal color of urine, excessive straining to urinate, or passing urine frequently in small amounts.
• Behavioral changes, such as restlessness, listlessness, hiding, or refusal to eat.
• Changes in the pattern of urination, such as urinating outside the litter box or in unusual places.

Home Care

• Feed only the food recommended by your veterinarian.
• Do not give any extra treats, food scraps, or vitamin supplements.
• Provide plenty of fresh, clean water all times.
• Encourage exercise whenever possible.
• Keep the litter tray clean and fresh.
• Once a cat has suffered from FLUTD, a food specifically designed to prevent crystal formation should be fed for life to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Feeding Recommendations

Cats suffering from struvite stones benefit from a food low in magnesium and phosphorus, which produces a normal acidic urine pH.  Cats suffering from calcium oxalate stones benefit from a food with appropriate levels of sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, and added potassium citrate, which helps produce a more alkaline urine pH.