CLINIC NEWS

May Newsletter 2015

With the wet season well on its way, your cat will be drinking less and going outside less frequently. Due to this, it also means it is the season of blocked bladder cats! Urethral obstruction due to the build up of stones or crystals from concerntrated urine causes cats to be unable to empty their bladders. It is most predominantly found in male cats due to their anatomy (having a long and narrow urethra). Inflammation, cellular and crystalline debris all can lead to the formation of a urethral plug.

This is a life-threatening emergency. If the blockage persists for longer than 24 hours, urinary toxins will build up and can result in kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances, and death. A partial blockage can be just as serious as a complete blockage.

Clinical signs include:

straining to urinate (can be mistaken for constipation)
discomfort and pain, especially in abdomen and hindquarters
stiffness in hindquarters
licking back end and/or genitals
vocalising
other signs of illness such as vomiting, unwillingness to eat, lethargy, and collapsing
How can I prevent this in my cat?

Some cats are more predisposed to urethral obstruction than others but to help prevent it from occuring, there are some steps you can take:

Increase fluid intake - ensure that there is always fresh water available, especially in the colder months.
ensure your cat has access to outdoors or a tolieting area, and during the wet season, put out multiple litter trays to encourage tolieting.
Diet change - there are specifically formulated diets create to help prevent the formation of stones and crystals. Talk to your vet about whether this change is right for your cat.
If you would like more information on this topic, please ask one of the nurses at reception for handouts or if you are concerned that your cat is at risk, book in for a consult with your vet.

Other news:

Puppy Preschool is well underway with our nurse Eileen currently teaching her second programme. If you have a puppy between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks and are interested in puppy preschool, please ask the nurses at reception for more information.
With it getting colder, please remember to think of your older furry friends who feel the change in seasons much more than younger pets. Offering warmer bedding indoors or in a well covered area is important as well as being aware of your pet's tolerance for colder weather and adjust accordingly. A coat or shorter walks in the winter time can make all the difference to their health!

All the best,

The team at Whangaparaoa Vet Centre.