From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!

Definition: FLUTD was previously known as FUS (Feline Urologic Syndrome). This condition is common in cats, and may be seen as straining to urinate, urinating in odd (non litterbox) places or bloody urine. This condition may be life-threatening, and it is always wise to see your veterinarian immediately before any urethral blockage occurs.

Cats urinating out of the litterbox (laundry pile, bathroom sink or rug, carpet, etc.) is a very common problem. The first and most important thing to rule out is medical versus behavioral reasons for this behavior. Your veterinarian can do this by asking questions, physical examination of your cat, and laboratory tests (blood and urine analysis). FLUTD is a medical condition; an inflammatory disease of the lower urinary tract (bladder, urethra). This condition can be caused by bacterial/fungal/viral infection, bladder stones or crystals, trauma or, as in most cases, from unknown cause (called idiopathic). Diet, heredity, stress and anatomy all play a part in this disease. It is important for cat owners to recognize the possible signs of this condition before assuming your cat is "mad" at you or other behavioral reasons. Here are some of the most common signs. If you notice any signs of urinary problems in your cat, please see your veterinarian as soon as possible.

• urinating out of the box
• straining to urinate or only urinating small amounts
• bloody urine
• excessive licking of genital area
• painful in abdomen when picked up, meowing
• anorexia or decreased appetite
• lethargy

If your veterinarian rules out medical causes of inappropriate urinary behavior, s/he should be able to recommend some behavioral modification techniques or recommend an animal behaviorist to help with the problem.

Veterinary Glossary Index

Also Known As: FUS (Feline Urologic Syndrome)

Examples: At first she thought her cat was just mad at her, but after she took him to the vet, she realized that FLUTD is a potentially very serious medical condition.