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Bladder problems are common in cats. I can't explain why and even most veterinarians that I have asked don't know why. Weird .. but we have to deal with it.

Bladder problems and incidences are estimated at about 6% of the cat population- believe it or not. There is a great debate amongst professionals on their causes and their treatment.

Bladder problems in cats and less commonly, kittens, may be caused by either infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma or fungi, crystals in the urine or even noninfectious conditions such as interstitial cystitis. Bladder problems or urinary tract issues can be caused from trauma such as being hit by a car or falling out of a tall building or even a tall fence.

You can't do anything to prevent trauma induced bladder conditions, but you can do something about preventing infectious or dietary induced bladder conditions in your cat.

Before I continue, I want to make sure that you understand this: ANY INFECTION IN YOUR CAT OR KITTEN, any unusual behavior etc... PLEASE, PLEASE see your veterinarian first.

The first product that we have found to be effective is UTI Paste by Mark and Chappell

UTI Paste provides a source of dl-Methionine and natural cranberry extracts.
This unique formulation acts as an aid in the management and maintenance of
urinary tract health for your cat. Dl-Methionine an essential amino acid can
only be obtained from the diet, aids in lowering urinary pH levels.

The second product that is recommended by professions is by EXCEL.

Excel Bladder Paste is a tasty paste that is prepared with cranberry for your cat's urinary tract health and preventive care. Cranberry extract and DL-Methionine help balance the pH. Great for senior cats and indoor cats.

The most common signs of a urinary tract infection in your cat that you will see include:

• Seeing your cat spending alot of time in the litter box, often straining to urinate.
• Blood in the urine, at other times there may be just tiny spots of urine even though they were in the litter box for a long time.
• Sometimes, they will associate the litter box with pain and actually urinate elsewhere.
• Sometimes you will here them cry, moan or move about uncomfortably in the litter box due to pain and discomfort.
• Sometimes, you will not see any urine and this can be very serious and life threatening because they may be blocked and unable to urinate and become toxic.

This is an emergency and you should take your cat to your veterinarian immediately. Any of the above signs warrant a visit to your veterinarian.

Labels: Cat Urinary Tract and Bladder Health