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Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease










What is feline lower urinary tract disease?

Feline lower urinary tract disease was formerly called "feline urologic syndrome" (FUS).  In this disease, the urinary bladder and the urethra (the channel that leads from the urinary bladder to the outside of the body) become inflamed.  Crystals in the urine can irritate the bladder and urethra.  Bacterial infections can also occur.

What are the signs of feline lower urinary tract disease?

This disease is very serious and can be fatal if left untreated.  Most signs of feline lower urinary tract disease are a result of irritation of the urinary tract.  Signs include:

  • prolonged squatting and straining when urinating
  • urinating a very small amount
  • attempts to urinate more frequently than usual
  • attempts to urinate outside of the litter box: often cool, smooth surfaces like bathtubs and sinks
  • howling or meowing when attempting to urinate
  • bloody urine
  • licking of the genitals
  • vomiting
  • depression
  • appears to be constipated
    • Male cats may actually develop a blockage in the urinary tract so that they cannot pass any urine. This is considered a Medical Emergency. It can kill a cat within 36-48hrs.

    What causes feline lower urinary tract disease?

    The exact cause of feline lower urinary tract disease is unknown, but we do know several factors that appear to be associated with it.  These include:

    • being overweight
    • diet high in magnesium
    • low water consumption
    • urine which is alkaline in pH
    • lack of exercise
    • Inside cats
    • Castrated males
    • eating mainly dry food


    How can you tell if my cat has feline lower urinary tract disease?

    The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive physical exam and palpate (feel) the bladder to see how full it is, if it's painful, and if urine can be expressed.  Laboratory tests may be performed including a urinalysis which usually shows crystals are present in the urine.   If these condition recurs or the veterinarian feels stones may be present in the bladder, radiographs (x-rays) may be performed.

    How is feline lower urinary tract disease treated?

    If the urinary tract is blocked with crystals,  the cat will be hospitalized.  The veterinarian will anesthetize the cat and pass a catheter into the bladder to free the obstruction and then flush out the bladder.  Cats with lower urinary tract disease are treated with fluid therapy to relieve dehydration and help flush out the bladder.   Antibiotics are often indicated.  Special diets are used to dissolve the crystals in the urine and prevent more from forming.