Oxalates in Cats Oxalates in cats arise from two sources. One is from diet and the second part is produced in the body (most in the liver). Oxalic acid is organic acid which appearing in the organism as a product of metabolism. Oxalic acid in smaller quantities normally produced in the body, and is in the form of soluble salts with sodium and potassium, but when in the presence of calcium, creates insoluble salts of calcium oxalate. Oxalate crystals and stones will often appear, if the urine pH acidic and if the cats have raised levels of calcium in the blood. Increased and abnormal calcium intake, vitamin D, protein and some carbohydrates may contribute to the formation of oxalate crystals and stones, as well as some metabolic disorders Cushings disease, hyperthyroidism, some types of cancer and so on. Changing lifestyle, primarily diet, the percentage of oxalate stones has increased dramatically in the last 30 years. In 1984 only 2% had been oxalate stones  and 79% struvite . Even though struvite stones still the most common by data from 2007 oxalate stones are present in over 40% of cases, and struvite  just under 50% of cases. Factor of risk The formation of calcium oxalate stones are always influenced by several factors: pH - acidic urine (pH below 6) increased specific gravity of urine age - more common in cats over 2 years old Gender - Possibility of formation stones are equal regardless of gender, complications are more common in males because their urethra longer and tinner than in females.  Lifestyle- reduced activity, excessive weight, stress Symptoms and diagnosis All diseases of the lower urinary tract, have the same symptoms: cat frequently urinating small amounts of urine in the container, but often out of him, screaming and strain during urinating, hematuria (Blood in urine), too much licking genitals, cat often withdraw and wants to be alone, little eating or not eating, vomiting, depression These symptoms in some cats can be very poorly expressed. In the case of blockage of the urethra, symptoms as well as the state of the cat is getting worse, if palpable abdomen cat will react extremely painful and death can occur within 48 hours. Obstruction of the urethra is serious and requires immediate intervention. If you suspected blockage of the urethra you should immediately contact a veterinarian. The veterinarian will make a diagnosis based on history, clinical features, X-ray and abdominal ultrasound. Quick test of urine will get useful information on urinary pH, specific gravity, microscope examination can determine the presence of crystals. Therapy If come to a blockage of the urethra or have big oxalate stones we must removed surgically. Changing diet is required, as well as other bad habits. Prevention and tips In prevention emergence of new oxalate stones we must change the diet and sustain urinary pH around 6.5 and a specific gravity of about 1,020 But do not select your own urinary diet for your cat, always consult with your veterinarian. Because the wrong food choices can only worsen the situation and increase the possibility of the formation of new stones. These  some of the foods that may be good in the prevention of new Calcium oxalate crystals (Hill's c / d or x / d, Royal Canin Urinary, Purina CNM UR formula, Specific, Eukanuba urinary oxalate) Good in the diet are chicken and red meat because of the low content of oxalate, but should be avoided meat internal organs (mainly in the liver) because of the high content of oxalate. -Motivate your cat to drink more water, change the water several times a day or buy a special fountain for cats. - Motivate your cat to urinate more often by placing more containers for sand. - Motivate your cat to exercise and keep your weight in the normal range - Avoid supplements with vitamin C - Avoid stressful situations for cats - Give canned food and food with low protein content. - Ask your veterinarian to periodically check the level of calcium in the blood, pH, and specific gravity of urine. Take care of your cats and love them

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