How to Dissolve Struvite in Cats

Struvite stones form when several crystals join together in the cat's urinary tract. The stones vary in size and shape and become dangerous when the urinary tract becomes blocked, which can lead to kidney failure. Breaking up the struvite crystals in a cat's urinary tract involves altering your cat's diet and daily water intake. A more drastic case of feline struvite crystals will involve removal through surgery.

Instructions

1

Take your cat to the veterinarian if you believe it has struvite crystals. He will perform tests such as a urinalysis and an ultrasound to check for the presence of struvite crystals. The presence of several crystals or stones may require surgical intervention.

2

Replace your cat's existing food with a dry food that is highly acidic. The acidic nature of the foods, which include Royal Canin Control, Hill's C/D and Purina CNM UR-Formula, will make the urine thinner and more acidic, which will help dissolve the struvite crystals and prevent new ones from forming. Avoid feeding the cat this specialized type of food for longer than two months, or as ordered by a veterinarian.

3

Feed the cat five to six smaller meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. According to Drs. Foster and Smith Inc., a cat that is fed more constantly will produce more acidic urine, which will help dissolve the struvite crystals.

4

Provide your cat with a constant source of fresh water. The water will cause the urinary tract to flush out more effectively, which will cause the struvite stones to dissolve.

5

Provide a stress-free environment for your cat. Avoid kenneling your cat, introducing a new pet into the household or any other event that will add stress to the cat's life. According to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, stress affects the pH balance of the cat's urine, which can cause the formation of struvite crystals.