Hi! Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a default diagnosis after all the other causes have been eliminated (bacterial UTI, stones etc. )
While it has become more common over the last decade, we do not yet know exactly what is causing the non-bacterial inflammation of the bladder walls that can be chronic or recurring. For that same reason, the symptoms can only be managed but not cured until it disappears on its own again - usually after 1-2 years. The good news is that IC is not causing stones and does not shorten the life expectancy. But it is not a pleasant thing to have, especially during acute flare-ups. Typical is that antibiotics cannot clear the symptoms or that symptons recur soon after treatment but that there is usually no sign of stones or sludge.
Links - Interstitial Cystitis - Guinea Lynx Records
Treatment is generally with metacam or a derivative brand, which is not just a painkiller but also an anti-inflammatory. In some cases, an antibiotic can help taking the tip off the acture symptoms, but that needs to be weighed up against the risk of building up resistance to antibiotics.
We recommend the use of a glucosamine-based cat food supplement like cystease to help support the natural glucosamine coat of the bladder walls. A balanced low calcium diet free of root veg and grain (sweet corn and grain based pellets) can also help.
More diet particulars in this link here:
Long Term Balanced General And Special Needs Guinea Pig Diets
If it is any consolation to you, my Nerys suffered from it for nearly 3 years but then had another 3 years completely free of any bladder issues and passed away at the ripe old age of 8 years. My Caron only had IC for 1 1/2 years and lived just fine after that, dying as one of the longest lived piggies from her large rescue haul from horrendous conditions.
