1.Urinary Tract Obstruction

The causes of urinary tract obstruction can be divided into two main groups: structural abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as a narrowed urethra, and foreign objects, such as urinary stones. These stones are often made from mineral deposits in the urine and are commonly found in cats that drink little water or consume inappropriate nutrition.

 

2.Cystitis or Urinary Tract Infection

This can result from various factors, such as urinary tract abnormalities, infections, or a common condition called Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC), which is often triggered by stress.

 

3.Dehydration

Water is essential for cats. Insufficient water intake can lead to dehydration, making urine more concentrated and increasing the risk of urinary stones and kidney disease. Owners should ensure their cats drink enough water throughout the day. You can encourage hydration by offering wet food or finding water sources that suit your cat, such as a flowing water fountain, which some cats prefer.

 

4.Kidney Disease or Chronic Kidney Failure

Kidney disease can be caused by many factors, including low water intake, poor nutrition, breed predispositions, or natural aging. When a cat has kidney disease, the kidneys’ ability to filter waste decreases, leading to improper urination and an imbalance in the body’s water, salts, and minerals.

 

5.Stress

Cats are prone to stress, which can be triggered by various environmental changes, such as moving homes or conflicts with other cats. Stress can affect the functioning of different systems in the body, including the urinary system.

 

6.Management and Environmental Factors

As mentioned earlier, an improper environment can cause stress. Issues such as inadequate space or the wrong number of litter boxes can contribute to urinary problems. For example, a cat with cystitis or FIC may not urinate due to stress caused by an unsuitable environment. To properly manage this, ensure the following for your cat’s litter box setup:

 

The number of litter boxes should be equal to the number of cats + 1. For example, if you have two cats, provide three litter boxes.

Place the litter boxes in different areas, ensuring they have multiple access points to reduce stress.

Taking comprehensive steps to manage your cat’s health and environment can help minimize stress and other risk factors. Additionally, consider supplementing their care with VF Core UC (blue) to reduce stress, a significant factor in preventing idiopathic cystitis, and to support urinary tract health. This product is suitable for both dogs and cats dealing with lower urinary tract conditions.

 

Remember to always take care of your beloved pets with attention and care!

 

VetSynova.