We have 2 beautiful Maine Coon cats, brother and sister about 11 months old. The male has developed a bladder problem (blood in the urine). We have eliminated all common causes i.e. kidney stones, crystals, bacterial infection, ulcers, tumors, blockages, etc with $700.00 in tests, lab work, x-rays, ultra sound. It is a fairly common problem evidently but we are about at the end of possibly diagnosis/treatment possibilities. We are trying a restrictive diet (Hills CD) without improvement. Does anyone have a suggestion that has been effective? HELP!!!!!!

-- Anonymous, November 17, 1998

Answers

I'm sorry to say that I don't have any specific experience with that problem, but I do have a couple of suggestions about vet work.

First, have you tried getting a second opinion? Quite possibly you have, but if not, I would hunt down a vet at the biggest, busiest animal hospital you can find in your area (one that has 24-hour emergency staffing).

Even if you have, if you want to pursue it further, the next thing I would do is find the nearest university with a veterinary school and make an appointment for a consultation. It may require a couple hours' drive (I'm fortunate in being that close to UC Davis), but can be invaluable for access to specialized knowledge and equipment.

Best of luck,

Ambar

-- Anonymous, December 31, 1998

I also have a male Maine Coon who developed bloody urine. After many tests and diagnostics he was diagnosed with FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease) He also eats only Fel C/D and has been on Amitriptyline5mg (he's 20lbs) twice a day for over a year and has not had a problem since.

-- Anonymous, February 27, 1999

Some years back we had a litter of "office kitties" who kept us all from going mad from the stress of a frequently unpleasant job. One of the males, a very ordinary DSH, developed FUS and after many rush visits to the vet for unplugging etc. the decision was made, not to put too fine a point on it, to remove his penis and create an openning rather like a females. This allowed the offending debris to pass more easily and we had no more problems. I've never heard of this type of treatment before or since but it worked for him. Aside from lewd comments from our friends it solved everyones worries. JH

-- Anonymous, April 22, 1999

We went through many emergency visits due to urinary tract blockage. It was happening real often even when on presrciption diet. Only thing left was to have surgery which seemed so drastic. All I can say is why didn't we do it years earlier. He is 15yrs old now.

-- Anonymous, May 01, 1999

Our "Put Put" had two urinary tract infections back to back. While he was on his second round of antibiotic we went to the local farm and animal store. They introduced us to a low ash product designed especially for urinary tract problems. We had him on it for about six months. He really wasn't that fond of it, but he ate it. We then mixed it with his former brand,IAMS for inactive cats. He was more satisfied. About a week ago we just bought Iams and by the next day his urine was very strong. We have decieded to give him the mixture. He may not be as happy with it. But he is healthier.

-- Anonymous, May 17, 1999