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Vesicourachal Diverticula in Cats

Vesicourachal diverticula occurs when a fetus' urachus -- embryological canal or tube connecting the placenta with urinary bladder of fetus -- fails to close. This congenital condition impairs the animal's normal urine outflow and makes it susceptible to urinary tract infections. Moreover, the condition may persist indefinitely if not treated properly.

Symptoms and Types

• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Painful urination (dysuria)
• Increased frequency of urination (pollakiuria)

Causes

Often, vesicouracahal deiverticula occurs in the womb or during the birthing process. However, there is also an acquired form of the condition, which results from diseases that put undue pressure on the bladder (e.g., bacterial urinary tract infections, uroliths, and urethral plugs).

The acquired form is more common in cats with lower urinary tract disease; male cats are also at higher risk for vesicouracahal deiverticula than females.

Diagnosis

You will need to give a thorough history of your cat’s health, including the onset and nature of the symptoms. The veterinarian will then conduct a complete physical examination, as well as a biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and complete blood count (CBC) -- the results of which help identify the underlying cause of the condition and the present of concurrent disorders.

The best tool for confirming diagnosis, however, is X-rays of the urethra and bladder while using contrast medium.