Companion Animals

Companion Cat Urinary Tract Health 2026

A comprehensive approach to urinary tract health in cats, covering prevention, diagnosis, and management of common conditions.

Key Facts

Lower urinary tract disease is one of the most common reasons cats present to vets
Feline idiopathic cystitis, urolithiasis, and urethral obstruction are the main conditions
Male cats are at higher risk for life-threatening urethral obstruction
Stress management and adequate hydration reduce FIC recurrence rates
Wet food diets significantly improve urinary health through increased water intake

Welfare Considerations

Urinary tract conditions cause significant pain and can be life-threatening for cats. Many cases are preventable through dietary management, stress reduction, and ensuring adequate water intake. Early recognition of signs prevents progression to severe welfare emergencies.

What You Can Do

Feed wet food as primary diet to improve urinary tract health through hydration
Ensure multiple water sources including fountains are available for your cat
Seek immediate veterinary care if your cat is straining to urinate without producing urine