Crystals in Cats

Crystals (stones in the bladder) can be a serious problem for male cats in Southwest Florida due to minerals found in well water. It's highly important for cat owners in this area to understand the symptoms, treatment and especially preventative measures to ensure the safety of their cats.

Crystals are a form of bladder disease most commonly caused by infection or irritation of the bladder stemming from impurities in food or water.  This is especially the case in Southwest Florida where heavy concentrations of minerals in well water can cause crystals to form in your cats bladder.

All cats both male and female can get crystals but can be more serious, even life threatening if not treated immediately, in male cats.

Common symptoms include difficulty urinating, increased frequency of urination, spending extra time in the litter box, urinating in small amounts at a time, urinating outside of the litter box, and blood in the urine. Without treatment male cats (who have a narrower urethra) can die within days from blockage of urine flow which causes a backup of toxins that are normally passed out of the body by urine.

In the case of urine blockage, treatment is directed at restoring the flow of urine. A catheter is inserted into the urethra to break through the blockade of crystals to then allow urine to flow. Most cats with crystals usually require antibiotics due to accompanying infection.

Some cats have a genetic reason for crystal development. These cats require special diets and/or medications to get rid of their bladder crystals and to help prevent theme from coming back.

In some cases surgery may be required to widen the urethra so the crystals may pass freely.

In the Southwest Florida area it is very important not to give cats water from the tap, especially well water.  Instead give them distilled or bottled drinking water.

Give us a call or stop by to talk about how changing what your cat eats and drinks can help prevent your cat from developing this life threatening condition.