One of the biggest topics we have people contact us for help with is urinary issues with our cats. Sadly so many kitties are suffering with recurring urinary tract issues and they call this feline cystitis.
Lower urinary disease in cats comes in many forms from urinary tract infections or UTIs, to bladder crystals to bladder stones. However sometimes the issue has no identifiable cause and the medical profession calls that Feline Idiopathic Cystitis. Feline Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder.
As you can imagine inflammation in the bladder does not feel good. You just want your baby to feel better. You go to the vet, once again, to get checked out only to be told it’s feline cystitis and are sent home with some pain meds along with inflammatory medication. Your cat gets better but it’s only a matter of time until the cycle starts all over again.
This is so crazy to me but you know what causes feline cystitis in 75% of our feline friends? STRESS! Yep, you read that correctly, stress.
Usually the first thing someone will tell me is, “but my cat is not stressed. He or she seems fine.” Remember a cat will try to hide when something is wrong because they are not only predators but they are prey too.
Some signs to look for if your cat is stressed:
- Going outside the box
- Sleeping more
- Digestive issues
- Excess licking or scratching
- Hiding or isolating
- Decreased appetite
- Aggression
- Being more vocal
If your cat is showing any of these signs or is having recurring urinary issues, lets work on reducing his or her stress. There are some simple things we can do to help our kitties relax and enjoy life better:
- Routine!! (ever hear the saying cats are creatures of habit?) cats like routines. Try to stick to a schedule when it comes to eating and exercise.
- Exercise! Just like us exercise is crucial to reduce stress and burn off excess energy.
- Keep the litter box scooped and pay attention to the location of your box. Be sure it’s in a place that your cat feels safe.
- Don’t pick your cat up unless you are sure that is what he or she wants.
- If there is a big change coming up in their lives, be sure to prepare for it beforehand.
- Put them on an all natural calming aid like our Cat Calm.
So if your kitty is having urinary problems that keep coming back be sure to look at their stress level and start with these simple suggestions to get that stress level down.
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