Pet Health Information

FELINE UROLOGIC SYNDROME - FUS

Feline Urologic Syndrome (FUS) is a frequent urinary tract problem of cats in which the bladder and the lower urinary tract become inflamed. It can occur in both male and female cats of any age and breed. Clinical signs usually include restlessness, frequent trips to the litter box, straining to urinate, licking the genital area, blood in the urine, and urinating in inappropriate places. The exact cause of FUS is unknown, although much research has been done on the subject.

Once the bladder and/or urinary tract becomes inflamed, blood cells, inflammatory cells, crystals and grit accumulate. Very often bacteria invade secondarily and find this inflamed environment an opportune place to cause an infection. Occasionally these cells, crystals, and grit congregate and form plugs. In a female cat, the urethra (the tube leading from the bladder out) is short and wide, so the plugs just pass through. In a male cat, however, the urethra is long a narrow, and curves on it way out through the penis. As a result, the plugs can get stuck in the urethra and block the outflow of urine. Once this occurs, the cat becomes very ill rapidly. Clinical signs will include vomiting, loss of appetite, depression and lethargy.

Once you notice signs of FUS, it is important to have your cat checked by a veterinarian to determine if an obstruction is present. If so, the cat will need to be hospitalized, the obstruction relieved, and supportive care given as needed. If an obstruction has not occurred, medical treatment at home will suffice. Your vet will discuss diagnostics which may help improve your cat's condition.

Many cats tend to develop clinical signs repeatedly  or experiences the problem chronically. With the exception of bacterial urinary tract infections, there is generally no cure for this condition. Therefore your vet may recommend one or more of the following to help manage your cat's condition:

• A special prescription diet aimed to modify the pH of your cat's urine and reduce/prevent crystal formation.

• Medications such as urine acidifiers or glucosamine may be warranted.

• Strategies to get your cat to increase his or her water intake such as water fountains, salt in the diet, or adding canned food to the diet.

Cats that repeatedly suffer urinary blockages may also need surgery to enlarge the urinary opening and help prevent further obstructions.