Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) and Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)

FLUTD or FIC is one of the most common conditions seen in cats. This condition is very common but always a challenge to determine a definitive cause in each case. Thus, the term 'idiopathic cystitis', meaning bladder inflammation of unknown origin is used to describe this condition. Potential causes include environmental stress, bladder stone, urinary tract infection and crystals. Urine testing and abdominal imaging is usually necessary to help determine the cause of the problem in each case. Urethral blockage (by urethral plugs or crystals) is a common consequence seen in male cats with FLUTD/FIC. It is an emergency if a cat has urethral blockage or commonly called 'blocked bladder'. The blockage could cause damage to kidneys and it is a life- threatening situation if the blockage is not relieved soon. Recurrence of the condition is very common. Early recognition of clinical signs and preventative measures are very important to reduce incident and severity of condition.

Clinical signs of these conditions include: 

-    Blood in urine

-    Increase frequency of urination with small volume of urine produced

-    Pain when urinating

-    Straining to urinate (can sometimes look like the cat is constipated)

-    Urinating in unusual places
If your cat is showing any of the above signs, be sure to call us immediately.

  

Prevention:

-    Increase water intake (drinking fountains, fresh water bowl, wet food diet, special diet)

-    Encourage urination (provide multiple litter trays :  rule of thumb is number of litter trays=     number of cats plus one , provide clean litter trays at all time, place litter trays in quiet places)

-    Reduce stress 

-    Environmental enrichment (regular play time each day)

Pet Health Insurance

Unlike human medicine, there is no 'Medicare' for pets. When our pets become ill, we are worried enough about our pets' health without needing the added stress of finances.

Vets today can offer treatments that were unheard of just a few years ago. Cats and dogs can now receive major surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and even stem cell therapy- just like people. Increasingly sophisticated and costly diagnostic tools, such as CTs and MRIs, are also becoming more popular. These tools not only detect problems that once would have gone unnoticed and untreated, but often boost the cost of the veterinary bills.

         

No one plans for their pet getting sick or being injured in an accident. With pet insurance, you don't have to worry about being faced with unexpected medical bills and you will be able to concentrate on the best possible care for your pet if the unexpected happens.

Many pet insurance companies are beginning to offer more flexibility to customize your coverage, to control your monthly premium and the level of coverage that suits you the best.

Petplan is exclusively offering Casula Veterinary Hospital and Elizabeth Drive Animal Hospital to sign up your puppies and kittens (from 8 weeks 12 months of age) for 4 weeks FREE Pet Health Insurance. Please talk to one of our friendly staff about signing up a pet insurance for your precious pets

Pet Dental Health Month Does your pet have bad breath?

Contrary to popular opinion, bad breath in dogs and cats is not normal but is in fact an early warning sign of dental disease. Just like humans, pets that don't receive regular dental care will collect plaque and tartar on their teeth that will, in turn cause gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Dental disease can cause significant tooth and nerve root pain. Although we often race off to the dentist for any pain associated with our own teeth, often our pet's teeth can go unnoticed for months or years. Meanwhile, ongoing dental pain affects a pet's appetite, their ability to chew and ultimately, results in a poorer quality of life.

Dental disease may even become so serious that your pet may need extended medical treatment. Ongoing periodontal disease may allow large amounts of bacteria to enter the bloodstream and damage internal organs. Dental disease has been linked to numerous health problems in dogs, including liver, kidney and heart disease.

Luckily, dental disease can be easily prevented but a combination of good dental care at home and regular dental health checks are required. Pets should be given dental chews at home 2-3 times a week. For older animals, placing them on a prescription diet specifically designed to prevent tartar build up, such as Royal Canin Dental Diet, may also aid in the prevention of dental disease.

Did you know that dogs and cats can have their teeth brushed as well? Just as in humans, this is the gold standard of dental care and if you can start early with your puppy or kitten, it becomes a normal part of their routine, just as for kids. Dental packs are inexpensive and come with a toothbrush that slips on your finger and a chicken or beef flavoured toothpaste which dogs and cats love!

For all dogs and cats, it is still important to have regular dental checks with your veterinarian. Even with the best of care, some plaque and tartar will build up over time but this can be easily removed with a scale and polish at your vet. If you catch plaque early, before it becomes calculus and causes gingivitis and periodontal disease, you can save your pet from dental pain and yourself from expensive dental care in the future