If you have observed that your cat is experiencing difficulties with urination, it could be due to a prevalent condition called cystitis. Cystitis in cats is characterized by inflammation in the urinary bladder, which hampers their ability to pass urine and can cause discomfort and pain for your beloved feline.
This condition is also referred to as idiopathic cystitis in cats, with "idiopathic" indicating that the precise cause is not clearly understood. Unfortunately, cystitis is both a common and intricate condition. Since its symptoms can be both medical and behavioral in nature, it may not always be evident what has triggered it.
What causes idiopathic cystitis in cats?
The primary cause of feline idiopathic cystitis is stress, which can manifest in various ways. When cats experience anxiety, the protective layer of their bladder can become patchy, leading to a compromised ability to shield against the harsh chemical components in urine.
Even if your cat appears calm and unperturbed, there is always some level of stress present that may go undetected, as cats are adept at concealing it. Generally, changes in their environment are common stress triggers. These changes can include extended periods of solitude, sharing their space with other pets, and interactions with unfamiliar individuals. Even minor disruptions like rearranging furniture in the home can induce abnormal levels of stress in cats.
Genetics can also play a significant role in a cat's predisposition to feline idiopathic cystitis. Unfortunately, this is beyond your control, making prevention challenging. However, by remaining vigilant and recognizing the early signs, you can provide timely and appropriate treatment.
Signs of cystitis in cats
Feline idiopathic cystitis can manifest through both behavioral and medical signs. Here are some of the most common symptoms of cystitis in cats:
- Frequently entering and exiting the litter tray.
- Urinating in unusual places throughout the house.
- Struggling or experiencing discomfort while urinating.
- Expressing pain during urination, often accompanied by vocalization.
- Excessive licking of the genital area.
- Presence of blood in the urine, appearing pink or dark.
- Producing minimal or no urine after straining.
- Loss of bladder control (though rare).
- Decreased appetite.
- Lethargy and reduced interest in usual activities.
If your cat displays any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately. Cystitis in cats can be a severe and life-threatening condition, so early detection and treatment are essential.
Diagnosing feline idiopathic cystitis
After conducting several tests to eliminate other potential causes such as bladder stones, cancerous growths, or infections, your veterinarian will likely diagnose your cat with feline idiopathic cystitis. They may also perform blood tests to ensure there are no underlying kidney problems or other conditions, and they might collect a urine sample for analysis. In some cases, additional confirmation may be necessary, leading your vet to recommend X-rays and an ultrasound to obtain a more detailed view of your cat's bladder and urethra.
Treating cystitis in cats
Treating feline idiopathic cystitis can be challenging and requires patience and time. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a feline veterinary specialist or behaviorist. While the condition can resolve on its own, it is advisable to seek treatment promptly due to the discomfort and pain it can cause your cat.
The positive news is that with veterinary intervention, many cats with urinary problems can lead normal and happy lives. Here are some of the most common treatment options for cystitis and urinary issues in cats
Pain relief
Cystitis in cats is often quite uncomfortable and, because pain can also cause the urethra to narrow further, pain relief is often prescribed.
Medication
Some drugs can be used to relax the urethra in male cats to try to prevent or treat blockages. Extra support, like medication supplements or pheromone therapy may also be recommended by your vet to help improve your cat’s bladder wall lining.
Stress reduction
Stress is known to play a part in feline idiopathic cystitis so speak to your vet about anything you think could be causing your cat stress and how it can be avoided. Your vet might recommend speaking to a veterinary behaviourist or suggest synthetic pheromone treatments to help with any anxiety your cat might be feeling.
Reduction in the concentration of the urine
Maintaining a good pH-balanced diet and ensuring adequate water intake is crucial to prevent potential symptoms of cystitis in cats. If your cat is currently on a dry food diet, consider transitioning them to wet food. If they are already consuming wet food, you can add a small amount of water or offer them "soups" made of tuna or chicken mixed with plenty of water (without salt). This helps increase their fluid intake and promote urinary health.
Increased water intake
Encouraging your cat to increase water intake is essential in preventing cystitis. Provide multiple sources of water throughout your home, including cat water fountains and wide-brimmed bowls. Place these water sources in various locations, both indoors and outdoors. Since cats may not have a strong natural inclination to drink water, consider enhancing its appeal by adding unsalted chicken broth or tuna juice for flavor. Additionally, ensure the water bowls are filled to the top, allowing your cat to drink without submerging their head deeply. Regularly refresh the water and consider using filtered or distilled water. If you're unsure about how much water your cat should be drinking, refer to our guide on this topic.