"Niki's" update on struvite crystals in urine

[deljo]

All of you are going to think I'm crazy for asking this question, but how does one know that there is a problem with cats urine. I've had my oldest since July and the youngest since Sept. Both have been to the vet, spayed and all shots given. As far as I know they are in good health. From what I read on this site, URI's and other urinary problems are very common. What should I watch for. They share the same litter box. Thanks for educating me.

 

[beandip]

Originally Posted by deljo

All of you are going to think I'm crazy for asking this question, but how does one know that there is a problem with cats urine. I've had my oldest since July and the youngest since Sept. Both have been to the vet, spayed and all shots given. As far as I know they are in good health. From what I read on this site, URI's and other urinary problems are very common. What should I watch for. They share the same litter box. Thanks for educating me.

It might be better to open a new thread for your question. But, anyway I can just tell you what I've observed with my cats.

Usually the first time you notice a problem is when they pee outside of the litterbox. The things I've observed are:

-sniffing around the house like a bloodhound on a hunt. A little is normal, but I mean a new obvious behavior that can go on for hours at a time.

-hopping from litterbox to litterbox without completing their business.

-frequent excessive licking of their genitals

-reduced urine output

-more frequent trips to the box

That's about all I can think of. You're right to be concerned, but some cats to go their whole life without gettting a UTI. One thing you might do is add another litterbox (because they usually prefer options and additional 'territory') and just try and 'observe'

what is normal for them.

 

[sicycat]

Yeah when Zoey had her UTI I noticed that she kept going in and out of the box like, a few times in one hour but not going much pee so that immediately told me she had a UTI. Luckily my cats have never peed outside the box, despite their problems, bless their little hearts.

 

[trudy]

I have another question. Where do you get the crystal litter?
Can you get it in a larger volume than what the vets give you to get a urine
sample, which is a very small amount that doesnt cover hardly any of a small
litter pan. "Niki" looks at it like it is emply and will hold out until 24hrs. or more
to use it.
thanks!

 

[sharky]

most pet stores have crystal litter

 

[trudy]

thanks!!