Causes
Name a possible physical obstruction causing a UO.
Calculus, urethral plug, or neoplasia
What is the most immediate life-threatening abnormality found on bloodwork?
Hyperkalemia
It leads to asysole.
This is the most important first treatment/medication for UO.
Give fluids.
Any crystalloid!
Would a UO due to stones more likely be in an older or younger cat?
Older cats.
Name four abnormal values on venous blood gas (NOVA) you will likely find with UO.
Hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, elevated BUN, elevated creatinine, and hypocalcemia
This medication is used to stabilize the cell membrane in the face of hyperkalemia.
Calcium gluconate
Name a possible cause of functional obstruction.
Urethral spasm.
What is the typical acid/base status of a cat with UO?
Metabolic acidosis
There is decreased H+ excretion by the kidneys, so it builds up in the blood.
This medication co-transports potassium to the intracellular space with glucose.
Insulin
Cats have a higher chance of UO if they are fed this type of diet.
Dry, low quality food. UO is also more likely in obese and indoor cats.
Hypocalcemia can be seen with UO. Is correction of hypocalcemia (without hyperkalemia) an important part of treatment?
No, once the kidneys are working properly the body will tightly regulate calcium again.
This beta-2 agonist is often used for bronchodilation, but can also be used for UO.
Terbutaline
Dysuria in cats is most often due to what?
FIC (feline idiopathic cystitis)
Buildup of toxic metabolites leads to this syndrome with prolonged UO.
Uremia
Clinical signs seen are depression, nausea, vomiting, anorexia
This alpha-1 antagonist can be used to decrease urethral sphincter tone after the obstruction is relieved.
Prazosin