Some pet owners notice their once – lively cats becoming lethargic. They observe the cats straining to urinate, with little to no urine produced, and the urine is blood – tinged. Upon hospital examination, the diagnosis is urinary stones.
Long – haired cats are more prone to urinary diseases. Among them, male cats, especially neutered ones, have a higher incidence. This is due to their narrow and long urethra, which easily accumulates crystals and debris. Over time, these form stones that block the urethra, causing urinary difficulties and pain.
The main causes of this condition are unbalanced diets, insufficient water intake, lack of exercise, and genetic factors.
In the early stages of urinary stones, cats may show no obvious symptoms. But as the condition worsens, symptoms like depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, and dehydration appear.Affected cats often strain to urinate, produce little urine, and vocalize in pain. They may also constantly walk around and lick their genital area. These signs indicate a possible urinary problem, and owners should take their cats to a vet immediately.
Vets diagnose urinary stones through urinalysis, imaging like X – rays or ultrasound, and blood tests. Treatment depends on stone type, size, and location. Small stones can be managed with a special diet and medications to dissolve them and promote their passage. For larger or obstructive stones, surgery may be needed to remove them and restore urinary flow. Antibiotics are given if a urinary tract infection is present.
After treatment, home care is essential. Ensure your cat has a stress – free environment, access to fresh water, and follows any prescribed diets or medications. Preventive measures like a balanced diet, ample water intake, regular exercise, and routine vet check – ups are vital to keep your cat healthy and prevent urinary stone recurrence.
