Need help with my cat's bladder syndrome & food

themerlins

 

-->

Repost from 3rd Tri board:

My 4 year old cat has this problem where he develops bladder infection-like symptoms - urinating uncontrollably around the house, blood in his urine, acts like he is blocked up, won't drink water, etc. But when we bring him in to the vet to get checked, there is no bacteria or crystals in his bladder which makes it impossible for the doctors to diagnose anything other than a "bladder syndrome". We honestly have tried EVERYTHING for about 3 years, medication, feliway, accupuncture, switching foods, multiple litter boxes, isolation but nothing has worked. I know vets are basically supported by Hills - Science Diet (and other unhealthy pet food companies) so mine won't recommend any other food. The biggest problem is that, although the Science Diet CD works for this one cat, my other 4 cats have very minor digestive problems due to eating it. I feel bad for them but it's the only thing has worked for the sick guy.

I was curious if anyone else has had a similar problem with their cat and has found a more hollistic/organic food that has worked. Thanks in advance!

Dobie_Mama

We used to feed Wysong Uretic and loved it.  Then we stopped being able to buy it locally and switched to Wellness CORE at our vet's recommendation.  Knock on wood - our crystal prone kitty has done really well with it.

Will your kitty eat moistened food?  Or wet food?  You might be able to get a bit more water into him that way.

Ready2006

I replied on 3rd tri, but Wellness canned has really helped up, and a grain-free dry for him to crunch on (we use EVO chicken & turkey). We need a supplement to acidify on top of it, but the diet changes have helped a lot.

gabbride

I'm a veterinarian and I'd first like to say, I'm sorry for your cat's problem b/c I know it can be very frustrating.  That said, most vets are not out to make money by recommending a prescription diet. It is definitely in the best interest of the patient.  I've seen many cats that have had urinary blockage, and been on a prescription diet for years and for one reason or another, the owner changes food and the cat reblocks.  C/d is a very effective food for urinary problems.  Hill-Science Diet, Eukanuba, other premium brand foods are NOT unhealthy!  They do alot of testing to stand behind their product (which is more than many other veterinary products out there).  Since c/d doesn't seem to be working, other products I can recommend are Royal Canin s/o and Iams wet food (which is unfortunately on a recall right now).  As a previous poster said, canned food and adding water to the diet is the best thing you can do.  Also giving the cat enrichment, such as cat trees and lots of toys can alleviate stress which can add to urinary problems.  If you have any other questions, you can e-mail me at ayrikawhite at hotmail dot com   HTH!