Companion Animals

Companion Animal Urinary Health

Urinary tract disease is among the most common health problems in cats and is significantly influenced by diet, hydration, and stress management.

Key Facts

Feline idiopathic cystitis affects up to 60% of cats with urinary signs
Stress is a primary trigger for cystitis episodes in cats with no detectable infection
Low water intake from dry food diets increases urine concentration and crystal formation
Environmental enrichment that reduces chronic stress reduces cystitis recurrence significantly

Welfare Considerations

Cats with urinary disease experience pain, urgency, and inability to urinate that causes acute distress. Chronic recurrent cystitis impairs quality of life repeatedly throughout affected cats' lives. Addressing underlying stress and improving hydration prevents many cases and reduces recurrence in affected cats.

What You Can Do

Feed wet food or add water to food to improve hydration and urine dilution
Address environmental stressors using the multimodal environmental modification protocol for cats
Consult a veterinarian at any signs of urinary discomfort — straining can be a medical emergency
Provide multiple water sources in different locations to encourage voluntary drinking