Owners of frisky felines know the joy of cozy purrs and often can depend on their four-legged alarm clock to wake them when it’s early morning mealtime. Many cat owners also have experienced the frustration of their cat urinating in locations other than their litter box. Although some cats may be seeking revenge for an empty food bowl, it is also possible that changes in your cat’s elimination habits are an indication they are suffering from a medical problem.  Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a complex medical condition that can lead to a potentially life-threatening urethral obstruction in some cases. Our Heritage Veterinary Clinic team answers common FLUTD questions to ensure you can recognize signs and risk factors in your cat.

What is feline lower urinary tract disease in cats?

FLUTD is a painful complex medical syndrome that affects a cat’s lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra, and urinary opening. FLUTD can be challenging to diagnose because of the variety of underlying causes, some of which may never be determined. Cats can be affected by FLUTD at any age. However, indoor, middle-aged, and overweight cats have an increased risk. Changes in your cat’s environmental or emotional state, including new people, pets, or routines, can be stressful and cause increased anxiety, which is also a FLUTD risk factor. Other risk factors may include:

Changes in your cat’s litter box habits may be the first clue that they are suffering from FLUTD. Ensure you provide one litter box per household cat, plus one additional box to help eliminate non-medical causes of inappropriate urination. FLUTD signs are variable depending on the underlying cause and severity. Bring your cat in to your veterinarian if they are showing any of the following FLUTD signs:

What diseases are associated with feline lower urinary tract disease in cats?

The underlying cause of FLUTD is unknown in more than 50% of diagnosed cats. However, there are several FLUTD-associated diseases, and some cats may have more than one of the following:

Other, less common, FLUTD-associated diseases may include hyperthyroidism, cancer, diabetes, or an injured urinary tract.

What is a urethral obstruction in cats?

Urethral obstruction is a serious, potentially life-threatening, FLUTD-associated condition that is the result of a partial or full blockage of the urethra. Uroliths, or plugs containing minerals, cells, or mucus-like proteins, can cause partial or total blockages that hinder an affected cat’s ability to urinate properly. Immediately bring your cat in for emergency care if they are unsuccessful during any attempts to urinate. Male cats are most at risk because of their longer, narrower urethra. Death can occur between 24 hours and 48 hours without treatment, which includes dislodging the blockage and treating any associated problems, such as electrolyte imbalances or abnormal kidney function. Cats who suffer from recurring blockages may require a surgery called a perineal urethrostomy (PU) to remove the narrow portion of the urethra so that uroliths can pass. PU surgery is high risk, and often recommended as a last resort.

Can feline lower urinary tract disease or urethral blockage be prevented in cats?

FLUTD, including urethral obstruction, is not always preventable because the underlying cause may not be identified. Yearly, or more frequent, examinations by your veterinary team will help with early identification of FLUTD risk factors, and may reduce the chances of more serious FLUTD-associated problems. Ensuring your cat’s environment is low-stress and avoiding sudden changes in their daily routine also will help prevent FLUTD. Other prevention tips include:

Bring your cat in for immediate veterinary care if they are not able to urinate, or if you are concerned they may have a urethral blockage. Call our Heritage Veterinary Clinic office and schedule your cat for an appointment if they are showing other FLUTD signs.