Feline idiopathic cystitis causes significant pain and distress in affected cats, with stress management being central to both prevention and treatment.
Cats with FIC experience significant pain from bladder inflammation. The condition is often recurrent, causing repeated welfare events. Male cats that obstruct face a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Stress is the primary triggering factor, with multi-cat households, indoor-only environments, and environmental changes being common triggers. Welfare-focused FIC management addresses the underlying stress through environmental enrichment, increased foraging opportunities, and reducing inter-cat conflict. Dietary changes including increased water intake through wet food also reduce recurrence.