Maxim VetZine #2024
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): Difficulty Urinating in Cats
August 2024
So, you know, your beloved cat suddenly has difficulty peeing? Don't panic yet! It could be that he has FIC, or in cool terms Idiopathic Bladder Inflammation.
Yes, it's also called idiopathic, so even veterinarians are confused about the cause.
Usually, cats that have FIC complain of pain when they pee, often go back and forth to the litter box but only have a small amount of urine, or even have blood in their pee. Poor thing, right?
Stress, the environment, or perhaps another disease could be the culprit. But don't worry, the vet can help reduce the complaints. The veterinarian may give you medication, special food, or tell you to relax first.
It's very important to keep the litter box clean, give it good food, and give your cat time to relax so it doesn't get stressed. If your cat does this often, don't hesitate to take it to the vet, okay? We will slowly discuss Difficulty Peeing in Cats .
What is Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)?
FIC is a disease that causes inflammation of the cat's bladder. Idiopathic means the exact cause is not known for certain. Even so, experts suspect that stress, environment, and perhaps other medical conditions play an important role in the occurrence of FIC. FIC generally has gone through a series of diagnostic examinations with various causes, but the cause may not be known for certain.
Why does FIC often occur in cats?
Stress: A change in environment, the presence of another cat, or even a change in routine can stress a cat. This stress can trigger inflammation of the bladder.
Environment: The dirt in the litter box, the type of litter used, or even the location of the litter box can affect a cat's urinary tract health.
Medical conditions: Although they rarely occur together, there are several medical conditions that can trigger or worsen FIC, such as infections, chronic inflammation, tumors, and obesity.
High salt feed: there are no definite reports, but cats fed dry-food with salt mineral content such as high levels of magnesium are a risk factor, and lack of fluid intake too.
Race : there is no research that definitively proves that certain races are more susceptible to FIC. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) is more often associated with environmental factors, stress, and overall cat health management, rather than a specific breed.
What are the symptoms of FIC?
Difficulty urinating: Cats will often try to urinate but little or nothing will come out.
Crying in pain when urinating.
Constant licking of the genital area.
Blood in urine.
Behavioral changes: Cats may become more aggressive, shy, or lose their appetite.
How is FIC diagnosed?
The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, urine tests, microscopic examination, ultrasound, and possibly blood tests to rule out other possible causes such as infection or urinary tract stones.
How to treat FIC?
FIC treatment aims to reduce inflammation and stress in cats. Some treatments that may be given include:
Medicines: To reduce infection, inflammation and pain.
Special diet: Special foods designed to help maintain urinary tract health.
Reduce stress: Create a calm and safe environment for your cat.
Behavioral therapy: Helps cats deal with stress and anxiety.
Important to remember:
FIC is a disease that often recurs.
Appropriate and consistent treatment is essential.
Take your cat to the vet if you suspect symptoms of FIC.
Prevention:
Keep the litter box clean: Change the litter regularly and clean the litter box daily.
Provide quality food: Healthy food can help maintain a healthy urinary tract. Consult a veterinarian, okay?
Reduce stress: Create a calm and safe environment for your cat.
Get your cat checked regularly: Regular health check-ups can help detect health problems as early as possible.
Conclusion
FIC is a fairly common health problem in cats. With proper care, your cat can live a comfortable and healthy life. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian.
Author: Dr Mahardhiko Widodo
Reference:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
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