Lower Urinary Tract Disease in Cats

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Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a common reason cats are brought to the vet. It can cause discomfort, distress, and in some cases, life-threatening emergencies—especially in male cats.

Common signs include:
• Blood in the urine
• Straining to urinate (sometimes without producing urine)
• Urinating outside the litter tray or in unusual places
• Excessive licking of the genital area
• Crying or vocalising when trying to urinate

Medical emergency: In male cats, a blocked urethra (the urine outflow tract) is an emergency. If your cat can not pass urine, call your vet immediately—even after hours.

Causes & diagnosis - FLUTD can be complex and often has multiple contributing factors. To determine the cause, your vet may recommend:
• Urinalysis
• Blood tests
• Abdominal ultrasound and/or x-rays

Treatment & management - often involves a combination of:
• Medical management (medications to relieve symptoms and treat underlying issues)
• Dietary management (specialised food to support urinary health)
• Environmental management (reducing stress, providing multiple litter trays, encouraging water intake)

If you notice any of the above signs in your cat, don’t wait—contact your vet straight away. Early treatment can make all the difference! 

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