There may be a new treatment for obstructive feline idiopathic cystitis, or chronic urinary blockage in cats without a known cause.
The Winn Feline Foundation recently reported on a pilot study of A-CYST, a Dechra Veterinary Products drug that is placed directly into the bladder via a catheter.
A-CYST is a glycosaminoglycan, a substance related to glucosamine. It helps restore the lining of the bladder wall, which in these cats is often glycosaminoglycan-deficient.
While the randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was small and of short duration, its results were promising. None of the cats showed any reaction to the drug or the procedure, and while three of seven placebo-treated cats suffered a repeat obstruction, none of the nine cats who received the A-CYST did.
If your cat suffers from this condition, ask your veterinarian if this might be a good choice for treatment.
And since someone is sure to ask, no, I have no financial ties to this drug or Dechra Veterinary Products, and only ties of respect and admiration for the Winn Feline Foundation!
