Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Urinary Wellness: Prevention and Monitoring

Preventing and managing feline lower urinary tract disease through proactive wellness care.

Key Facts

Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) affects up to 60% of cats presenting with lower urinary tract signs
Stress is the primary trigger for FIC episodes in cats under 10 in multi-cat or indoor environments
Increased water intake through wet food and water fountains reduces urinary concentration and recurrence risk
Weight management and environmental enrichment are evidence-based FIC prevention strategies

Welfare Considerations

FIC causes significant acute pain and distress during episodes, and affected cats may have repeated events throughout their lives without preventive management. A proactive approach addressing stress, diet, and environment substantially reduces welfare impact and emergency presentations.

What You Can Do

Feed primarily wet food and provide a water fountain to increase daily water intake
Implement stress reduction strategies including extra litter trays, vertical space, and hiding spots
Consult a vet if your cat has had a FIC episode to develop a prevention plan