I’m really worried about my cat, Muffin. She's been having a tough time lately with struvite crystals, and her vet just recommended a special diet to help dissolve them. I’ve switched her over to the vet-prescribed food, but she seems to hate it and barely touches her bowl. I've tried everything—warming it up a little, mixing in a tiny bit of her old food, even hand-feeding her—but nothing seems to work. She's losing weight, and I’m feeling really guilty and anxious about the whole situation. Has anyone else experienced something similar with their cats? Did your cat eventually adjust to the new food, or is there something else I can do to help Muffin eat? Any advice would be much appreciated!
Thanks for your question! Struvite crystals in cats can be a bit concerning, but with the right approach, they can often be managed effectively. Struvite crystals form in the urine when there's an imbalance of minerals, usually due to diet or hydration issues. This is why special veterinary diets are often recommended. These diets help dissolve the crystals by making the urine more acidic and diluting it, which prevents more crystals from forming.
You can also support your kitty at home by ensuring they're well-hydrated. Encourage more water intake by providing fresh water daily and considering a cat fountain, as many cats prefer running water. Feeding wet food can also increase their water intake, which is beneficial.
Keep an eye out for signs of discomfort, such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or urinating outside the litter box. These can indicate a blockage or infection, which requires immediate veterinary attention.
It's important to address this promptly to prevent further issues, so I recommend scheduling a video consult with Dial A Vet. This way, we can discuss your cat's specific needs and determine the best course of action together.
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