Recognizing Calcium Oxalate Symptoms in Cats
Does your cat have difficulty urinating? Frequently position itself to urinate without producing urine or only minimal amounts? Does it show signs of pain by vocalizing during urination or urinate outside its litter box? Is your cat excessively licking its genital area, or have you noticed blood in its urine? These symptoms could indicate urinary crystals, commonly struvites or calcium oxalates. These crystals can cluster, forming urinary stones that irritate or obstruct the urinary tract. Stones may occur in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra.
Symptoms and Complications of Calcium Oxalate in Cats
When stones impact kidneys or ureters, symptoms might be intermittent or absent. However, if stones lodge in a male cat’s urethra, urinary blockage may occur. Unable to expel urine, the bladder becomes dangerously distended, risking rupture. Toxins accumulate rapidly in the bloodstream, causing swift poisoning. Without prompt intervention, the cat could die within 24 to 48 hours. Even with immediate treatment, irreversible kidney and bladder damage may occur.
Calcium oxalate crystals tend to form in overly acidic urine (pH below 6.0). Male cats over seven years old are particularly at risk, especially breeds like Persians and Himalayans.
Diagnosing Calcium Oxalate
To confirm crystals and exclude other possible conditions (urinary infection, bladder inflammation, tumors, other stone types), several tests are necessary:
- Urine analysis: A fresh urine sample is ideal, as crystals can form artificially if refrigerated or analyzed too late.
- X-rays: Identify and locate urinary stones.
- Blood tests: Detect elevated calcium levels or kidney failure linked to urinary blockage.
Treatment and Prevention
When stones are confirmed, surgical removal is usually required. Unlike struvites, calcium oxalates cannot be dissolved by medication or diet. Removed stones must undergo laboratory analysis to confirm their composition.
Preventing Recurrences of Calcium Oxalates in Cats
- Increased hydration: Encourage your cat to drink more water by placing multiple water sources, using a water fountain, or adding ice cubes or a few drops of tuna juice to the water.
- Specific dietary management: Choose veterinary diets like Hill’s Prescription Diet C/D Multicare, Royal Canin S/O, or Purina UR ST/OX, formulated to maintain optimal urinary pH and promote hydration.
- Favor wet food: Canned foods contain higher water content, helping dilute urine and reduce crystal formation.
- Regular veterinary follow-ups: Periodic urine analyses and X-rays are recommended to monitor and quickly identify any recurrence.
Conclusion
Calcium oxalate crystals are particularly dangerous in male cats due to urinary blockage risk. Early detection, prompt treatment, and proper diet are essential in preventing complications and improving your cat’s quality of life. If your cat exhibits urinary symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately.
