Menu

Save more with Autoship

 

FLUTD and urinary problems in cats

Cat with urinary problems

Understanding FLUTD: What It Is & Why It Matters

By Dr. Linda Morgan DVM, MVS, Dip Ba,

Veterinarian at Post Pet Meds

9th July 2025

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), also known as cystitis or idiopathic cystitis, refers to conditions affecting a cat’s urinary tract such as bladder or urethra. Symptoms may include frequent urination, straining, bloody/ red in the urine, accidents around the litter-box, and signs of pain or discomfort

Multiple factors can contribute to the development of feline urinary tract disease. These include cases are idiopathic (unknown cause) cystitis on any combination of factors like urinary stones, infections, or stress. In male cats, urethral blockages can be life-threatening and require emergency care

cat picture

Spotting Early Warning Signs

Early recognition is crucial. Watch for:

    • Urinating more frequently or in small amounts
    • Straining or crying when using the litter-box
    • Blood-tinged, cloudy, foul-smelling urine
    • Urination in odd places (e.g. bed, corners of room)
    • Excessive grooming around the genital area
    • Behaviour changes: hiding, reduced appetite, lethargy

When to Rush to the Vet

Take your cat to the vet immediately if:

    • If your cat looks like they can’t urinate (only passing small drops)—this is a medical emergency for male cats
    • They show persistent straining with no urine coming out
    • There's blood in the urine, pain, or behavioural changes.

If in doubt schedule call your vet or veterinary emergency clinic

️ Managing FLUTD

If your cat is not passing urine or small amounts this is an emergency and needs to see your vet immediately. They may require require further testing, such as urine tests, blood tests, a urinary catheter, and hospital stay

In the long term, several steps may help manage FLUTD. Always discuss with your vet for specific recommendations suited to your pet.

Diet & Hydration

Environmental Enrichment & Stress Reduction

    • Provide fresh water via multiple sources like bowls or a pet fountain
    • Maintain clean litter boxes. Having multiple litter boxes in different parts of the house is useful especially in multiple cat houses. Provide a quiet, safe toileting space.
    • Reduce household stress, create safe hiding spots, and quiet zones
    • Consider synthetic pheromones like Cat comfort, Feliway to calm anxious cats

Supplements & Nutraceuticals

(Always consult your vet before starting any supplement)

Cysaid , Calmex can be useful

Medical Treatments

Sometime you vet may prescribe medications such as anti‑spasmodics, anti-inflammatories, pain relief, or antidepressants (amitriptyline)

Ongoing Prevention & Monitoring

While this condition can be recurrent, these steps can help reduce frequency of flare ups

    • Stick to a moisture‑rich, urinary‑supportive diet long‑term.
    • Keep hydration and water access consistent.
    • Monitor urinary habits and litter‑box output daily
    • Check-in with your vet regularly, especially after an episode.

Aim for a low-stress, enriched home environment.

Disclaimer:

This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations tailored to your cat’s individual health needs

© Post Pet Meds 2025. All rights reserved.

This content may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed without express written permission from Post Pet Meds

Post Pet Meds Newsletter

Join the Post Pet Meds newsletter for special deals and pet care insights

 

Please correct the errors above and try again.

    Post Pet Meds

    NZ Online Veterinary Pharmacy and Pet supplies. Auto- ship available, secure payment options, pet supplies delivered to your door . Veterinary owned, Proudly New Zealand owned Copyright ©2025 Post Pet Meds (PPMVET Limited). All Rights Reserved