What are cat kidney stones?
Kidney stones are not actually stones but are crystal deposits that accumulate in the kidney for some time. Cat kidneys, like human kidneys, process urine. When mineral salts like carbonates, ammonia, phosphorus and calcium start to become less soluble and form a small mass in the kidney, that is the onset of crystallization. The crystals tends to block the passage of the urine from the kidney. Thus, the cat will have a difficult time relieving itself through urinating due to blockage. At times, blood can also come out with the urine, an indication that the crystal is struggling to force itself out. This creates small wounds in the kidney and in the urinary tubes in the process. Those small wounds can be infected in due time if not treated immediately. Again, experts and researchers point out diet and food intake habits for one cause of cat kidney stones. Three other reasons exist, including genetic defects, medications, and other illnesses. A cat’s drinking habits can also be a factor