My name is Lola and I am the proud owner of Stitch. Stitch is a cheerful 2-year-old tomcat. Normally, he is very energetic, loves playing with his little sister, and enjoys a lot of attention. But just two weeks ago, I suddenly noticed something strange about him.
What do I notice about Stitch?
- He peed in random places in the house.
- Often peeing, but not much
- He also meowed while peeing.
- He was not feeling well, he no longer wanted to play and avoided attention.
At first, I thought 'the litter box is too dirty,' because sometimes he tends not to want to use it if he thinks it's too dirty. After cleaning the litter box, I thought the problem was solved. Unfortunately, this was not the case; in the following days, Stitch kept urinating in strange places. As soon as I noticed this, I called the vet. They asked me to collect urine for a urine test. They suspected (just like me) a bladder infection.
Unfortunately, it turned out to be bladder gravel, and it was a bit worse than we expected.
Don't let bladder stones come between you and your cat - work together for a healthy future.
But what exactly is bladder gravel & What are the causes?
Bladder sludge is a condition where crystals or stones form in a cat's bladder. These crystals often consist of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. It starts with small crystals in the urine, but over time these crystals can merge into stones. These stones can block a cat's urine flow. This leads to painful and potentially life-threatening situations.
The causes of bladder gravel
- Food: The food can play a major role in the formation of bladder stones. If the food is rich in minerals such as magnesium and calcium (the minerals that make up bladder stones), this increases the chance of bladder stones.
- Hydration: Cats that do not drink enough water are at greater risk. A low-moisture environment makes it easier for the minerals to form crystals.
- Stress: Cats are sensitive animals and can become stressed quickly. Prolonged stress can affect a cat's immune system and health. This can increase the risk of bladder stones.
- Age: Primarily older and male cats are more likely to develop bladder stones.
- Breed: Some cat breeds have a genetic predisposition to forming bladder stones.
Among others, the Persian cat and the Siamese.
Bad news for Stitch
Because Stitch's bladder was already so blocked, it was decided that he needed to be admitted to the veterinary clinic. Here he received a catheter, antibiotics, and painkillers. Fortunately, the next day he was doing so well that he was allowed to go home again.
For home, we received a number of things from the veterinarian that should help reduce the bladder stones. I was given special food. I also received antibiotics and painkillers.
How can my cat get rid of bladder stones?
- Medical treatment: The veterinarian can prescribe medication that relieves the symptoms of bladder stones and treats any infections. Medication may also be prescribed depending on the type of bladder stones, which dissolves the crystals.
- Diet adjustment: Adjusting the diet is an important part of the treatment for bladder stones. It is therefore advisable to purchase food that is specially made to prevent bladder crystals. This is often low in minerals involved in crystal formation.
- Adequate hydration: Good hydration helps dilute the urine and promotes a healthy urinary system. Make sure your cat drinks plenty of water through a drinking fountain. Wet food also ensures the cat takes in more moisture. If your cat does not want to drink, add some water to the dry food in the morning or evening.
- Stress reduction: If stress plays a role in your cat's formation of bladder stones, it is important to identify the stress factor. Reduce it and provide a calm, safe environment for your cat.
- Check-ups: During treatment, it is necessary to regularly submit urine samples to the veterinarian. They can monitor progress and ensure the bladder stones remain under control. Follow the veterinarian's recommendations carefully and administer any medication precisely.
All's well that ends well
Fortunately, Stitch is doing much better now. I notice that the antibiotics and painkillers are working well. Since the main cause for Stitch was insufficient water intake, I bought a drinking fountain on the advice of the veterinarian and he is already drinking much more!
Next week he has to go for a check-up at the vet, I expect that he will be much better by then.
Read the next article
7 Reasons why your cat needs a cat tree!
21.07.2023
Have you ever wondered why cats like to scratch? Scratching is actually one of the natural instincts of the cat and therefore a cat tree...
