Feline idiopathic cystitis is the most common cause of lower urinary tract signs in cats under 10 years and is strongly associated with chronic stress. Management centres on reducing environmental stressors.
FIC is a welfare-significant condition because it causes acute pain and distress during episodes and is directly driven by chronic stress. Affected cats experience dysuria, haematuria, and painful straining that can progress to urethral obstruction - a life-threatening emergency. The strong stress association means that improving the cat's environment is not just quality-of-life enhancement but direct medical management. Multimodal environmental modification (MEMO) addressing litter tray management, resource provision in multi-cat households, predictable routines, and hiding opportunities significantly reduces episode frequency. FIC represents a clear example of how animal welfare and physical health are inseparable.