Pet of the Month: Licorice!

Licorice had been a part of his owners’ lives for only two months when they noticed he suddenly was not quite right.

He was brought to us immediately because he was vocalizing and straining in his litter box. An investigation consisting of a thorough physical examination, followed by abdominal radiographs, blood, and urine tests diagnosed Licorice with Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). This is a life-threatening condition. Since Licorice had a complete obstruction of his urinary tract he was unable to urinate. Emergency treatment was initiated. Licorice was treated with intravenous fluids and medications to stabilize him while his urethra was unblocked, and his bladder flushed. Licorice spent a few days in hospital on intravenous fluids to help normalize his electrolyte and kidney parameters. Licorice was discharged with medications and a therapeutic diet directed towards urinary health. Since being home for a month, Licorice has returned to his normal routine of spending quality time with mum and dad.