What are the symptoms of feline urethral hyperplasia?

When a cat has urethral hyperplasia, it means that the urinary tract is blocked. Symptoms include vomiting, poor appetite, and bladder enlargement. This is mainly due to the cat's stress response, causing them to unwillingly urinate, and the urine to accumulate in the urethra for a long time, forming stones. Urinary tract obstruction requires timely medical attention to prevent钾from returning to the kidneys through the blocked urinary tract, causing hyperkalemia and rapid death.

Causes of urethral hyperplasia

Feline urethral hyperplasia occurs when there is an abnormality in the glomerular filtration of the kidneys, allowing large molecules to enter the ureter and reach the urethra, gradually accumulating in the urinary tract to form an obstruction. It may also be caused by stressors, such as fear and tension, which cause the cat to hold in urine for a long time, leading to urinary tract obstruction. Prompt drainage of the urinary tract is necessary when an obstruction occurs.

How to check the urinary tract

When a cat has a urinary tract problem, different examinations are required based on the symptoms. Main examinations include: checking for proteinuria, crystal urine, hematuria caused by drugs, and whether sulfonamide drugs have been used recently. Urethral obstruction, renal calculi, and bladder calculi can be detected using ultrasound and X-rays. If renal function is compromised, a blood test for biochemical examination can be performed.

Important notes after urethral drainage

After the cat's urinary catheter is left in place, a urinary bag is needed to collect the urine. The cat receives daily intravenous fluids to regulate electrolyte balance, and the urine output is monitored daily. A head collar is also placed on the cat to prevent them from licking the catheter. Nutritious food is provided, and the catheter is cleaned and maintained properly. If the urinary catheter is not left in place, red oxide paste is applied to the cat's glans after urination to prevent infection. The owner should be instructed to monitor the cat's urine output, and to observe whether the cat is unable to urinate or experiences urinary retention. If any of these conditions occur, the cat should be taken to the veterinarian immediately for treatment.