Feline Idiopathic Lower Urinary Tract Disease Flashcards
What are the main theoretical causes of FLUTD?
idiopathic (duh)
uroliths, bacterial, neoplasia, trauma
How do we diagnose FLUTD?
diagnosis of exclusion- rule out other causes ESPECIALLY if the animal is older
What increases an animals risk of FLUTD?
age- generally 2-6 years
spayed/ castrated
obesity
dry cat food
What are the current theories for causes of FLUTD?
interstitial cystitis due to neurogenic inflammation or mucosal defects
neuroendocrine imbalance
Which theories have been disproved as causes of FLUTD?
infectious agents
crystalluria
urachal diverticula
Why is virus’ being a cause for FLUTD not completely disproved yet? (2)
Virus like particles have been identified in crystalline matrix urethral plugs
Episodic signs and recur in times of stress
What do we mean by Neuroendocrine imbalance as a cause for FLUTD?
inadequate glucocorticoid restraint means the sympathetic nervous system goes unchecked/ receives more stimulation than inhibition
What increases a cats risk for developing FLUTD?
Access to litter box
Living with other cats
Being male
Why would some vets suggest prescribing Antispasmodics to treat FLUTD?
Give an example of drug.
Propantheline- anticholinergic drug that decreases detrusor contraction to stop the bladder emptying/ contracting as often
What is the risk of using Antispasmodics to treat FLUTD?
risk of urine retention- increases risk of stones, UTI’s etc.
When are glucocorticoids contraindicated in the treatment of FLUTD?
In azotemic (glucocorticoids increase GFR) & catheterised animals
What do we need to consider before prescribing Amitriptyline to treat FLUTD?
It’s a tri-cyclic antidepressant so consult a behaviourist before prescribing
Also can elevate liver enzymes so contraindicated in animals with hepatic disease
When may we consider prescribing Anxiolytic drugs such as Amitriptyline?
in refractory cases (those with ongoing clinical signs/ don’t self resolve)
What is typically the drug of choice for treating FLUTD in the UK?
synthetic glycosaminoglycans
Give two examples of environmental modification we can recommend to help reduce FLUTD?
Canned food & increased water intake
Unscented cat litter
Improved litter box management
Enrichment
