Feline idiopathic cystitis, the most common cause of FLUTD, is primarily a stress-responsive disease where environmental enrichment and stress reduction are more effective than medical management.
FIC provides a compelling example of how the physical environment directly determines an animal's welfare. Indoor cats in barren environments with insufficient resources, no control over social interactions, and limited behavioral outlets are predisposed to stress-induced bladder inflammation. The welfare intervention is largely environmental - creating spaces for escape, rest, and behavioral expression costs little but directly reduces disease occurrence. The most welfare-positive approach addresses the root cause (stress and environmental inadequacy) rather than repeatedly treating the symptoms.