Cystitis is a common bladder disease in cats. Specialists from the veterinary college of Badajoz discussed the possible causes of this condition and methods of treatment. This is reported by the Spanish veterinary portal animalshealth.es.
According to experts, cystitis in cats often has a chronic nature, is more frequently observed in males, and can be caused by various factors. The main causes are bacterial infections and the formation of salt crystals in the urine. Both of these factors lead to irritation of the bladder and cause pain in the urinary tract. “This is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent veterinary assistance,” specialists emphasize.
Other causes may include changes in diet, injuries, and stressful situations. In particular, an unbalanced diet and lack of fluids can contribute to the formation of crystals and stones in the urinary tract. Cystitis can also develop due to sudden changes in the environment or stressful events, such as the introduction of new animals or people into the pet's life.
The main symptoms of cystitis include difficulty urinating (“hanging” over the litter box) or urinating outside the litter box, presence of blood in the urine, excessive licking of the genital area, and general signs of discomfort. If one or more of these symptoms appear, the animal should be taken to a veterinarian immediately, specialists advise.
Treatment usually involves the use of antimicrobial medications (in the case of a bacterial infection), as well as dietary changes to prevent the formation of crystals and stones. In particularly severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove stones or clear the urinary tract.
Experts remind that the prevention of cystitis in cats includes ensuring a balanced diet, constant access to clean fresh water, as well as litter box maintenance and attention to the pet's emotional state.
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