Crystals In Cat Urine Symptoms

What causes crystals in cat urine.

Crystals in cat urine symptoms.

The recommended best cat food for urinary health are specially formulated to manage the condition by lowering urine ph and managing crystals. The vet will perform a physical examination and take a urine sample to examine the urine for any abnormalities. The most easily detectable symptom of the condition is the presence of crystals in freshly expelled urine. Cat bladder crystals although both male and female cats are at risk of developing urinary infections male pets are more likely to suffer from urethral blockage.

Because crystals in the urine that are passed in the litter box may be missed by pet owners other symptoms may help pet owners discover. Though the main symptom of crystalluria is the appearance of fine crystals in freshly expelled urine other symptoms from accompanying conditions may also occur. They can remain small in size or grow to be several millimeters in diameter and may rub against the bladder walls causing inflammation. Some normal animals can have crystals in their urine although sometimes they are indicative of an underlying issue especially if present in large numbers or accompanied by urinary symptoms.

Pet owners should therefore watch for any symptoms of urinary tract infections or bladder crystals and conduct a vet check if these symptoms exist. Younger cats can develop crystals in their urine just as easily as older cats so age isn t really a factor. Different types of crystals may develop if your cat isn t eating a proper complete and balanced diet. Bladder stones are rock like deposits of minerals crystals and organic material that are found in a cat s bladder.

Symptoms of crystals in the urine in cats. The detection of urinary crystals is not synonymous with kidney stones or the clinical signs associated with them nor is detection of urine crystals irrefutable evidence of a stone forming tendency but there is some association with an increased risk for kidney stones in animals that are. Diagnosing struvite crystals. Urinary crystals are microscopic structures that can be found in the urine of many animals including cats.

Bloodwork and x rays may also be recommended. If your cat is exhibiting some of the symptoms described above it is best to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away. Also any condition that changes your cat s urine ph such as kidney disease or long term medication use can cause crystals. Crystalluria is a medical condition where crystals are expelled into the urine.

In most cases the cause of crystals in your cat s urine is consistent and frequent consumption of dry cat food. These crystals which are microscopic in size tend to appear like fine sand and often occur as part of or because of other conditions.