What to give a cat with urolithiasis?

What to give a cat with urolithiasis? - briefly

If your cat has been diagnosed with urolithiasis, it is crucial to provide them with an appropriate diet and adequate hydration to support their recovery. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations on diets designed to prevent or dissolve urinary stones, such as those low in magnesium and phosphorus. Additionally, ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times to promote healthy urine flow and help flush out any small stones.

What to give a cat with urolithiasis? - in detail

When a cat is diagnosed with urolithiasis, also known as bladder stones or urinary stones, it's crucial to manage their diet carefully to help dissolve the stones and prevent new ones from forming. Here are some key aspects to consider when choosing what to feed your cat:

1. Diet Type: Wet food is generally recommended over dry kibble for cats with urolithiasis. Wet food has a higher moisture content, which helps dilute the urine and reduce the concentration of minerals that can contribute to stone formation. However, it's essential to choose a wet food specifically designed for cats with lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) or urinary health.

2. Urinary pH: The pH of your cat's urine plays a significant role in the type of stones that can form. Different types of stones dissolve better at different pH levels:

   • Struvite stones (the most common type) dissolve best in acidic urine, so you should feed your cat a diet that promotes acidification of the urine.
   • Calcium oxalate stones dissolve best in alkaline urine, so you would want to feed your cat a diet that promotes alkalinization.
   • Urate stones can form in both acidic and alkaline environments, but they tend to be more common in cats with high levels of uric acid in their urine. In this case, a diet designed to reduce purine intake might be beneficial.

3. Low Magnesium and Low Phosphorus: Diets low in magnesium and phosphorus are often recommended for cats with struvite stones, as these minerals can contribute to stone formation. However, it's essential to consult your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your cat's diet.

4. Prescription Diets: There are several prescription diets available that are specifically formulated to help dissolve and prevent urinary stones in cats. These diets often contain a blend of ingredients designed to promote the appropriate urine pH for the type of stone your cat has. Examples include Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary S/O, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets UR Oxysafe Feline.

5. Hydration: Ensuring your cat drinks enough water is crucial for diluting the urine and preventing stone formation. You can encourage your cat to drink more by:

   • Providing multiple water bowls around the house.
   • Adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice to their water (ensure it's not too salty).
   • Considering a water fountain, as many cats prefer running water.

6. Regular Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your cat's progress and make any necessary adjustments to their diet or treatment plan. Your vet may also recommend periodic urinalysis to assess the pH and mineral content of your cat's urine.

7. Supplements: In some cases, your veterinarian might recommend supplements to help manage your cat's urolithiasis. These can include potassium citrate to alkalinize the urine or omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation in the bladder. Always consult your vet before giving your cat any supplements.

In conclusion, managing a cat's diet when they have urolithiasis requires careful consideration of various factors. It's essential to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your cat's specific needs and promotes overall urinary health.