{"id":478,"date":"2020-05-28T18:19:53","date_gmt":"2020-05-28T18:19:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/?p=478"},"modified":"2020-05-28T18:19:53","modified_gmt":"2020-05-28T18:19:53","slug":"what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/","title":{"rendered":"What Ingredient in Cat Food Causes Crystals in Urine?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>To much of minerals such as\u00a0calcium, phosphorus and\u00a0magnesium\u00a0in cat foods can lead to crystals in the urine, which can lead to urinary stones. To avoid this make sure your cat drinks plenty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p>Struvite crystals are dreaded by both pet owners and their pets. These crystals can eventually form stones, which block or irritate a cat\u2019s urinary tract. When struvite crystals develop, it becomes difficult for cats to urinate, despite their persistent urge to do so. This can make your cat unhappy and eventually lead to a more serious health concern.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_17 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-grey\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><i class=\"ez-toc-glyphicon ez-toc-icon-toggle\"><\/i><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class=\"ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1\"><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#What_Are_Struvite_Crystals\" title=\"What Are Struvite Crystals?\">What Are Struvite Crystals?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#What_Causes_Cat_Crystals\" title=\"What Causes Cat Crystals?\">What Causes Cat Crystals?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#Why_Do_Struvite_Crystals_Form\" title=\"Why Do Struvite Crystals Form?\">Why Do Struvite Crystals Form?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#Can_My_Cats_Food_Be_the_Cause_of_His_Urine_Crystals\" title=\"Can My Cat\u2019s Food Be the Cause of His Urine Crystals?\">Can My Cat\u2019s Food Be the Cause of His Urine Crystals?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#Can_Wet_Food_Treat_Struvite_Crystals\" title=\"Can Wet Food Treat Struvite Crystals?\">Can Wet Food Treat Struvite Crystals?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#So_What_Food_Should_I_Give_My_Cat_Now\" title=\"So, What Food Should I Give My Cat Now?\">So, What Food Should I Give My Cat Now?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#Common_Questions_About_Struvite_Crystals_in_Your_Cats_Urine\" title=\"Common Questions About Struvite Crystals in Your Cat\u2019s Urine\">Common Questions About Struvite Crystals in Your Cat\u2019s Urine<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#What_Dissolves_Struvite_Crystals_in_Cats\" title=\"What Dissolves Struvite Crystals in Cats?\">What Dissolves Struvite Crystals in Cats?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#What_Can_I_Give_My_Cat_for_Urinary_Crystals\" title=\"What Can I Give My Cat for Urinary Crystals?\">What Can I Give My Cat for Urinary Crystals?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#_Does_Dry_Cat_Food_Cause_Urinary_Problems\" title=\"&nbsp;Does Dry Cat Food Cause Urinary Problems?\">&nbsp;Does Dry Cat Food Cause Urinary Problems?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Struvite_Crystals\"><\/span><strong>What Are Struvite Crystals?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These are microscopic crystals that can be found in a cat\u2019s urine. Specifically, struvite is a material that\u2019s composed of phosphate, ammonium, and magnesium. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crystals themselves can be normal but can turn out problematic when combined to form grit and\/or stones. Sometimes, stones can be dissolved or flushed out but in other cases, it should be surgically removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_Cat_Crystals\"><\/span><strong>What Causes Cat Crystals?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are various types of cat crystals and many reasons why your cat may develop them. Calcium oxalate and struvite are the most common types of crystals. However, their formation could not often be traced to one cause.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, different types of cat crystals might develop if your feline friend is not eating a balanced, complete, and proper diet. Also, certain conditions that change the urine pH level of your cats like long-term medication use or kidney disease can also cause cat crystals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Do_Struvite_Crystals_Form\"><\/span><strong>Why Do Struvite Crystals Form?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Struvite crystals are very tiny crystals which can form in your cat\u2019s urine and might cause him significant pain, irritation, and even possible infection. The cause of struvite crystals isn\u2019t well understood, however, the following can potentially be some of the reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Low water intake<\/li><li>An alkaline environment (a high pH)<\/li><li>A lower urinary tract inflammation<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_My_Cats_Food_Be_the_Cause_of_His_Urine_Crystals\"><\/span><strong>Can My Cat\u2019s Food Be the Cause of His Urine Crystals?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are actually several factors that can cause the development of struvite crystals, which is why it is important to feed your kitty a balanced and complete diet for his appropriate life stage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should check with your cat food\u2019s manufacturer to ensure it\u2019s formulated to produce an optimal pH level in a cat\u2019s urine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Wet_Food_Treat_Struvite_Crystals\"><\/span><strong>Can Wet Food Treat Struvite Crystals?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Vets will often use a multipronged method for treating struvite crystals in cats. First, they will eliminate the underlying cause if possible. Many veterinarians will also recommend high-quality wet canned foods since they have seen wet foods to reduce struvite crystals in their practices in this field. Regardless, adequate hydration is very important for cats who are not drinking enough water.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"So_What_Food_Should_I_Give_My_Cat_Now\"><\/span><strong>So, What Food Should I Give My Cat Now?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Below, you can find some easy tips on how to help your cat feel better again, and also to prevent cat crystals from recurring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Make sure to <a href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/best-cat-food-for-indoor-cats\/\">feed your cat a variety of wet canned food<\/a>, which will help a lot in hydrating and promoting the urine\u2019s formation with an acidic or low pH level.<\/li><li>Feed small meals frequently as this will cause lesser fluctuation in the pH level of your cat\u2019s urine.<\/li><li>Provide adequate litter boxes and make sure to keep them in a safe, quiet place.<\/li><li>Provide fresh, clean water all the time and consider having a kitty fountain or multiple water bowls. You can also try using a delicious chicken broth in order to encourage your feline friend to drink more.<\/li><li>Minimize some major changes in your cat\u2019s routine.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>[crp]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Questions_About_Struvite_Crystals_in_Your_Cats_Urine\"><\/span><strong>Common Questions About Struvite Crystals in Your Cat\u2019s Urine<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Dissolves_Struvite_Crystals_in_Cats\"><\/span><strong>What Dissolves Struvite Crystals in Cats?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Struvite stones and crystals can, fortunately, be dissolved through feeding your cat special diets. If your cat doesn\u2019t like one certain diet, then another one can be selected \u2013 both canned and dry selections can also be mixed even though there\u2019s some thinking that the canned food\u2019s extra water is more beneficial for the dissolution of stones and crystals in cat\u2019s urine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_I_Give_My_Cat_for_Urinary_Crystals\"><\/span><strong>What Can I Give My Cat for Urinary Crystals?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Struvite crystals and stones can usually be dissolved easily. The key is to create more dilute and acidic urine. Canned prescription foods that can acidify the cat\u2019s urine are highly ideal, however, dry formulations are also available for kitties who do not like to eat wet canned food. Certain medications that can help acidify the urine can also be utilized when your cat should be put on a special type of diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Does_Dry_Cat_Food_Cause_Urinary_Problems\"><\/span><strong>&nbsp;Does Dry Cat Food Cause Urinary Problems?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats who only prefer to eat dry food like kibbles (which is low in both moisture and mean) potentially have more alkaline, concentrated urine that leads to the formation of cat crystals. The best foods for cats that can help in preventing urinary issues are canned and raw foods since these contain more moisture and meat compared to dry cat foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many possible causes of struvite stones and crystals in cats and these causes aren\u2019t clearly understood. Because of that, it\u2019s best to consult with your trusted vet regarding the most helpful food choices and medication for your cat. Your vet may modify your cat\u2019s diet and prescribe medications to undergo the right therapeutic plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/What-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine_-1-683x1024.png\" alt=\"What ingredient in cat food causes crystals in urine_\" class=\"wp-image-480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/What-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine_-1-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/What-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine_-1-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/What-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine_-1-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/What-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine_-1.png 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>To much of minerals such as\u00a0calcium, phosphorus and\u00a0magnesium\u00a0in cat foods can lead to crystals in the urine, which can lead to urinary stones. To avoid this make sure your cat<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":479,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[8],"tags":[23],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v16.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What Ingredient in Cat Food Causes Crystals in Urine? [ Detailed Answer ]<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/animalsa2z.com\/what-ingredient-in-cat-food-causes-crystals-in-urine\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What Ingredient in Cat Food Causes Crystals in Urine? 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