Ask Your Vet These Questions About Cat Urinary Issues

Cat Urinary Issues - Don't Leave the Exam Table Without These Answers

Have you ever taken your cat in for cat urinary issues, but were afraid to ask your vet some basic questions? As a vet tech, its common for people to be embarrassed about talking about their cat's urine problems. Here's some of the questions I always make sure I answer to cat owners about cat urinary issues before they leave the office.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about cat urinary issues and problems.

Q. What kinds of cat urinary issues are there?
A. Urinary Tract Infections can be bacterial or fungal infections in the bladder or other areas of the urinary tract. Many cat urinary issues stem from UTIs. Cats can also suffer from urinary blockages, bladder thickening, or kidney failure. Cats that are overweight, have diabetes, are elderly, or suffer from kidney problems are at higher risk for urinary urinary issues.

Q. How can I tell if my cat has a urinary issue?
A. Cat urinary issues have a variety of signs and symptoms. Watch your cat for these common signs: litter box accidents, passing blood in the urine, painful urination, desire to urinate on cool, smooth surfaces like tile.

Q. How are cat urinary issues treated?
A. Your cat's treatment will depend on his diagnosis, age, and overall health. Many cat urinary issues can be resolved with dietary changes and homeopathic remedies. In some cases, more aggressive treatment with prescription medications or i.v. fluids is required. Only your vet can diagnose your cat's urinary issue, so if you notice a problem, have your cat seen right away.

Q. Can urinary problems be prevented?
A. You can help you cat avoid urinary issues by feeding him a special diet, and by supplementing his diet with homeopathic remedies. Homeopathic remedies can ease urinary symptoms, and boost your pet's immune system.

Q. My cat just urinated on the carpet—what's going on?
A. Sometimes, urinating outside of the litter box can be a behavioral or territorial issue. Male cats will mark their territory with urine. Cats of both genders can have behavioral issues, and can urinate in inappropriate places. If your cat has never exhibited this behavior before, you should call your vet, as litter box accidents can be a sign of a urinary problem.

Q. When should my cat be seen by a vet?
A. Your cat's urinary issues may be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, and it important to take your pet to the vet if you suspect he is having a problem. Your vet can diagnose and treat your cat's condition. The faster your cat begins treatment--whether it is a homeopathic remedy, a simple diet change, or a course of medication—the sooner he will begin to feel better. Always err on the side of caution, for your pet's sake.

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Tests For Cats In Kidney Failure

If you are reading this article, no doubt you have concerns that your cat has a urinary tract or kidney problem. The purpose of this is for you to understand what tests are run for cats in kidney failure. You can help your cat live longer by getting him in early to the vet to have a a series of diagnostic tests run. Your veterinarian will perform as series of tests for cats in kidney failure.

First lets review some of the vocabulary used to convey the state of the condition for cats in kidney failure. Acute kidney (or renal) failure in your cat is characterized by complete organ failure where the kidneys stop working altogether. Acute renal failure in cats happens suddenly. It can affect both young and old cats.This type of kidney disease is almost always fatal but if treated immediately and aggressively, the kidneys may regain normal functions and your cat may live a relatively normal life.

Another term, chronic kidney failure, is the more common disease. This type of kidney disease is usually experienced by an aging cat when their major organs have diminished function. Sadly, by the time you notice the symptoms for cats in kidney failure, about 70% of your cat's kidney functions are already in trouble. Chronic kidney failure is a progressive disease and will eventually result in the death of your cat. Early diagnosis and aggressive management can keep your cat comfortable for months, if not years.

Your vet will palpitate the kidney area and check for small, shriveled kidneys. He may take x-rays or an ultrasound. The most dependable diagnosis comes from the blood and urine tests taken from your cat.

Testing Your Cat's Blood

A blood test evaluates the BUN level of your cat's blood. No, BUN isn't a level of yeast but stands for the Blood Urea Nitrogen level. The BUN is a chemical that the liver makes from ammonia. After production, BUN is excreted into the kidneys, which increases in some diseases especially for cats in kidney failure. The test also is a marker for dehydration in your cat or even bladder stones.

Blood tests also show the level of creatinine in your cat's blood. Creatinine is the breakdown product of muscle and normally is excreted by the kidneys. If your cat's creatinine level is abnormally high it helps confirm that your cat's elevated BUN level was caused by kidney failure.

Testing Your Cat's Urine

When a healthy cat is dehydrated the proteins show at a concentrated level. Your veterinarian will check for signs of infection by evaluating your cat's urine. He will also evaluate the concentration of proteins. For cats in kidney failure, this protein concentration is not there which is key to determining if your cat's kidneys are functioning properly or not.

To wrap this up...testing your cat's blood and urine is vital for determining if your cat is having a kidney problem. Do not give up when you hear your cat has kidney disease. There are a number of homeopathic remedies available to improve the quality of life for cats in kidney failure. You'll find more tips for helping treat a cat with chronic renal failure at http://Cat-Bladder-Problems.com.