Chances of cat still blocking on urinary food

Question

I'm really hoping for some advice and reassurance here. My sweet boy, Oliver, who's a 5-year-old tabby, has been battling urinary blockages. It’s been so stressful to see him in discomfort, and after a recent scare where we had to rush him to the emergency vet, they recommended switching him to a special urinary diet. He's been on this food for a little over a month now, but I’m paranoid because he still seems slightly off. He’s using the litter box more frequently and occasionally seems to strain. I’m terrified he might block again despite being on the urinary food, and I can’t bear the thought of him going through that pain again. Has anyone else been in this situation? How likely is it for him to block again even with the diet change? Any advice or similar stories would be appreciated. Thank you so much!

Dial A Vet · Accepted Answer

Hello! I'm glad you reached out about your kitty's health. Cats can indeed still experience urinary blockages even when they're on a special urinary diet. These diets are designed to help dissolve struvite stones and crystals and prevent oxalate stones, but they aren't foolproof for every cat.

Blockages can still occur due to a variety of reasons, such as stress, inadequate water intake, or an underlying medical issue. It's really important to ensure your cat is drinking plenty of water. Consider offering wet food more often, or providing a pet fountain to encourage more drinking, as increased hydration can support urinary health.

Signs of a serious urinary blockage can include straining to urinate, frequent trips to the litter box with little to no urine produced, blood in the urine, vocalizing in pain, or unusual lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek veterinary care immediately, as blockages can become life-threatening very quickly.

For more personalized advice or if you're noticing any concerning signs, I highly recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. We're here to help provide the best care for your furry friend.

Chances of cat still blocking on urinary food

Answer

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