Feline urologic syndrome (FUS) is a group of diseases, all of which result in inflammation of the bladder and urethra.  FUS affects cats of both sexes and all ages.  There is a high rate of recurrence, especially in cats which suffer their first episode at an age of less than four years.

FUS in the female cat is usually not a life threatening disease.  Female cats with FUS commonly have blood and crystals in their urine.  FUS in male cats, on the other hand, is very often a medical emergency due to a high incidence of urethral obstruction.  This renders the male cat unable to urinate and leads to a build up of toxins.  This is fatal if untreated.

The cause of FUS is unknown.  There are many theories as to the cause of FUS including: virus, diets high in magnesium, obesity and crystal formation with in the urine.

The clinical signs of FUS include blood in the urine, inability to urinate, increased frequency of
urination and urinating in inappropriate places, especially cool, smooth surfaces.  Male cats may lick at their perineal (around the rectum and penis) area excessively and appear to be constipated.  In addition to these signs, it is important to realize that a cat that is unable to urinate is a very sick and may be lethargic, vomiting, or exhibiting neurologic signs.

Diagnosis is based on each cat's history, clinical signs and physical exam.  Further tests, such as urine analysis, blood tests and x-rays, are often necessary to pinpoint diagnosis.

Treatment for FUS varies case by case.  Male cats which are obstructed must be anesthetized
and catheterized.  These urinary catheters usually must remain in place for 12 hours to three days so that the urethra is given time to heal.  This requires hospitalization while the catheter is in place.  In addition to catheterization, antibiotics are given to prevent infection and a prescription diet is given to promote acidic and dilute urine.  Occasionally, drugs which promote acidic urine are given.

Several things should be done to lessen chances of recurrence:

§                                                           Avoid stress which leads to decreased water consumption

§                                                           Encourage increased water intake

§                                                           Feed a low magnesium diet such as Hill's C/D