Feline kidney stone management with urocit-k

Urocit-K is a medication used to prevent the formation of kidney stones in cats. Feline kidney stones also known as nephrolithiasis develops in the urinary tract in pets. Urinary stones develop when the urinary tract accumulates crystals from waste matter that passes through the body. Over a period of time crystals that don`t disintegrate or pass out develop into kidney stones or uroliths. The components of urinary stones differ and the treatment varies according to individual cat symptoms.

Cause and Symptoms of Feline Kidney Stone

The cause of crystal buildup or kidney stone formation is attributed to genetic predisposition, urinary tract infections and underlying ailments. The vet will perform several tests to detect the primary cause of nephrolithiasis. Since cats generally mask signs of pain and discomfort, pet owners should monitor pets that exhibit any symptoms that include blood in the urine, painful urination and fowl smelling urine. Some cats may also urinate out of the litter box. Pets that suffer from chronic urinary tract infection and persistent or prolonged vomiting require additional attention or medical help.

Diagnosis of Feline Kidney Stone

Pets that exhibit signs of kidney stones or kidney disease are subjected to various diagnostic tests that include blood tests, urine analysis and urine culture tests. It`s important to obtain a sample of urine that`s free from any external contamination, to perform a urine culture test. The vet may use a catheter to directly obtain urine from the body. In addition, the vet will perform an x-ray and ultrasound to detect the presence of kidney stones in the urinary tract. Kidney stones may be treated with medication to dissolve the stones. Dietary modification may also be necessary. Stones that can`t be eliminated with oral medication have to be removed surgically to prevent kidney damage.

Controlling Feline Kidney Stone with Urocit-K

Urocit-K is a prescription medication that`s used to prevent the formation of future kidney stones in pets susceptible to the condition. It contains the active ingredient potassium citrate that reduces the acidity of the cat`s urine. Urocit-K is available in tablets of two different potencies. The dosage varies according to individual pet needs. The medication should be administered whole along with food and water. It`s important not to crush or break the tablet as it`s a controlled release drug.

Video: Cat Health : Kidney Stone Symptoms in Cats

Precautions:

• Urocit-K shouldn`t be administered to the cat without prior vet approval.
• Urocit-K may interact with other products or supplements that contain potassium.
• Other drugs that interact with urocit-k include enalapril, digoxin and certain over the counter drugs.
• Urocit-K may not be suited to pets suffering from underlying ailments such as Addison`s disease and stomach ulcers.
• Overdose is dangerous and pets may experience side effects that include cardiac arrest, diarrhea and paralysis.

Other Treatment Options for Feline IBD

Kidney stones that form due to other underlying factors are controlled only after the underlying ailments are treated. Few pets may be fed diets such as the Hill`s diet or food that contains lower amounts of magnesium and phosphorous. Pets treated with surgical removal of kidney stones require proper rest and home care. In rare cases surgical removal of damaged kidneys may also be necessary.

Video: Kidney Stones: Management, Treatment and Prevention Video - Brigham and Women's Hospital

Since the cause of IBD varies, pet owners should identify the main cause and take preventive measures to avoid future urinary infections.

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