Cystitis
Cystitis applies to any disease that inflames the urinary bladder. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection; however, bladder stones and polyps may be to blame. The more common symptoms include blood in the urine and discomfort when urinating. Your pooch may also urinate more frequently than normal.
When Cystitis may be a factor, your veterinarian will run a number of tests including urinalysis, urine culture, and a bladder palpation. If your dog is experiencing additional symptoms, other tests may be administered. Once a proper diagnosis is determined, your veterinarian may recommend antibiotics, a specialized diet, or surgery in some cases.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) affects roughly 1% of the cat population. It is characterized by the presence of blood in the urine and by discomfort when urinating. You may also notice excessive urination and vocalization while urinating.
A urine culture and x-rays will help to determine the cause of FLUTD which may include bladderstones, urine crystals, infection and tumors. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis is the most common cause of FLUTD. Your veterinarian will determine the root cause of your cat’s FLUTD and will prescribe medication or alternative methods of treatment which, in some cases, includes surgery. With proper treatment, your cat should be back to it’s playful, comfortable self in no time.
Kidney Disease
Kidney Disease is a relatively common disorder in older cats. Kidney failure occurs when the kidneys are no longer able to function normally and are less effective at removing waste products from the blood. As a result, water consumption increases in addition to an increase in urine production. Hyperthyroidism, Urinary Tract Infections, and an acidified diet are often responsible for the onset of Kidney Disease and, if left untreated, Kidney Failure.
If you suspect that your cat may have Kidney Disease, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. They will perform several tests to determine the cause and the best method of treatment. Medication and a specialized diet are some of the most common treatment options available. It is not a preventable disease; however, your cat can still maintain a good quality of life for months and years to come. The best advice is to schedule regular visits to your veterinarian and to be on the lookout for unusual symptoms and behaviors.