My cat has FIC, bladder stones & sludge. Vets disagree on surgery.

Question

My cat has FIC. He has had 11 flare ups and I am receiving contradictory info. He has plenty of water sources, on CD diet, cosequin , wet food. Has sludge and very small stones in bladder. Have 2 vets saying he needs a cystotomy, one saying cystotomy and PU, and one saying wet food/water/low stress to clear sludge and monitor for blockages (he has only been blocked once). We are teachers and can't afford $4k in surgery. Looking for as many opinions as possible. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 4 months old | 12 lbs

Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear of your concerns with Harry. FIC is a very frustrating condition. Individual cats can respond very differently to different therapies and so there is not one single, best way to treat FIC. There are diets on the market that can dissolve struvite crystals and stones, but these are not effective in all cases. The concentration of the urine and the components of the diet are the most important factors long-term. Different brands of diets can sometimes work better in different cats. If the c/d diet is not working for Harry, you may want to try a different brand such as the Royal Canin urinary s/o diet. If he has only had one obstructive episode you do not necessarily need to proceed with a PU at this time, but keep in mind that if he has small stones present and continues have to have flare-ups, he is at risk for another blockage. A PU surgery will greatly reduce the risk of an obstruction but is not without risk itself and is expensive, as you know. Most cases of FIC can be managed via diet and supplements but I cannot speak to the need for a cystotomy without reviewing x-rays and medical history. If you would like to discuss this case further, using our consultation option may be helpful as you are able to upload X-rays and other medical information. This would allow us to give more specific recommendations. I wish you the best of luckin managing Harry's condition. He's very lucky to have you.

My cat has FIC, bladder stones & sludge. Vets disagree on surgery.

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