Inflammation of the bladder, or cystitis, is fairly common in cats, especially male cats.

Tell-tale Symptoms

As the inflammation moves into the urethra the cat begins to show symptoms. These include increased urination, urinating outside of the litter box, and sometimes blood in the urine.

If a male cat is squatting and not voiding, or only making a few drops, this indicated blockage of the urethra. This is an emergency situation and requires IMMEDIATE VETERINARY ATTENTION.

The cat can die of uremia (blood poisoning due to toxins backing up into the bloodstream) within 24 hours or fewer. Female cats are less likely to have complete blockage, but it is possible if bladder stones are present, so do not delay getting her to the vet either.

Food Often the Culprit

Cystitis is usually caused by something in the diet. Low quality, dry cat foods are most often to blame.

Foods that contain a high quality protein source will produce less waste products and thus are easier on the kidneys.

Kidney and bladder stones, also called crystals, usually form when the urine is too alkaline, but occasionally are caused by over acidity as well. Normal cat urine is slightly acidic.

Treatments for Cystitis

Cystitis is also known as Feline Urologic syndrome (FUS), or more recently, Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD).

It is often treated with antibiotics, though many times they are not necessary. They may be prescribed as a preventative measure, as prolonged irritation may result in a secondary bacterial infection.

Dietary changes and herbal products may be a better option for prevention of bladder stones in animals prone to them.

See also: Dr. Larry Siegler's article on Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease.

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