I'm really hoping to get some advice or insights from fellow cat owners who might have faced something similar. My beloved kitty, Muffin, has recently been diagnosed with struvite stones in her bladder, and I'm completely freaked out. The vet mentioned that this is related to her urine having elevated pH levels, and now I'm scrambling to figure out the best way to manage this. I've read about dietary changes and special foods that can help, but there's so much information out there that it's overwhelming. Has anyone had success with particular diets or supplements that helped lower urine pH levels? Also, are there any non-food related tips that might prevent these stones from forming again? I want to do everything I can to keep my little girl healthy and happy, so any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!
Hello! I'm glad you've reached out with your concerns about preventing struvite stones in your cat. Struvite stones can form when the urine pH is too alkaline, leading to painful urinary blockages. It's great that you're looking to address this.
A common cause for elevated pH is a diet too high in certain minerals, like magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate. To help manage this, aim to feed your cat a diet specifically formulated to maintain urinary health. These foods help keep urine pH at an optimal level to prevent stone formation.
Increasing your cat's water intake is equally important. Try adding wet food to their diet or using a pet fountain to encourage more drinking—more water intake can help dilute urine and maintain a healthy pH balance.
Pay attention for warning signs of a urinary issue, such as straining to urinate, frequent attempts to urinate with little success, blood in urine, or vocalizing in the litter box. If you notice any of these, get professional help as soon as possible since blockages can become serious quickly.
For personalized advice, or if you're noticing symptoms already, consider setting up a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet. It's the best way to ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy.
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