WHAT IS FELINE IDIOPATHIC LOWER URINARY TRACT DISEASE?
Idiopathic lower urinary tract disease is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bladder and the urethra in cats. As the word “idiopathic” suggests, we do not know exactly what causes this condition. Viral infections, abnormalities in the bladder wall, crystals in the urine, and obesity may all play a role in the development of this condition. WHAT ARE THE CLINICAL SIGNS OF ILUD? The clinical signs of ILUD can include (but are not limited to) the following: straining to urinate, increased frequency of urination, and blood noted in the urine. Some owners think that their cat is constipated because he/she spends prolonged periods of time in the litter box. HOW DO YOU DIAGNOSE ILUD? ILUD is diagnosed using a combination of history, physical examination, examination of the urine, and blood work. Radiographs, ultrasound, and/or a urine culture may all be used to make a definitive diagnosis. CAN ILUD BE TREATED? Yes, ILUD can be treated. One of the keys to treatment is the promotio
