|
|
|
|
Urolithiasis Urolithiasis is the formation of stones and crystals within the kidneys and bladder. There are four mains types of urolith which vary in their mineral composition. The most common are struvite uroliths, the others are calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and urate. Formation of uroliths can be induced by chronic bacterial infection within the bladder but more commonly it is dietary related. When the kidneys excrete to much of a certain type of mineral it crystallises in the urine. Uroliths present a problem because they irritate the bladder, provide a focus for persistent infection and, more seriously, can obstruct urine flow. The typical signs include blood in the urine and difficulty or inability to pass urine. Diagnosis of the problem will require urine testing for crystals and possibly X-rays for bladder stones. If the bladder is blocked the animal should be seen promptly as an emergency case. Cats with blocked bladders are extremely uncomfortable, frequently attempting to urinate, in considerable discomfort and very vocal. Male cats are much more likely to suffer bladder obstruction than females. Treatment of cases with complete obstruction involves catheterisation of the bladder to re-establish urine flow and surgical removal of any uroliths from the bladder. The prognosis depends on how quickly urine flow can be re-established and whether any renal damage has been suffered, if minimal then the prognosis is good. Cases which are left are likely to result in a ruptured bladder with grave prognosis. All cats should have their diet modified to reduce the urinary excretion of the offending minerals. Most will require antibiotics to clear bacterial infection. Recurrence of this condition is a problem so strict adherence to a prescribed diet so be ensured. Frequent testing of urine for crystals should be undertaken to monitor the condition. |
|