Keeping Your Cat's Urinary Health in Check: Top 5 Tips

Cats are often afflicted by urinary problems such as kidney disease, chronic bladder inflammation, and urethral obstruction. Many cat owners seek ways to maintain their feline companions' urinary health and prevent these issues. Whether your cat has a history of urinary troubles or you aim to prevent disease, here are five essential tips to help keep your cat's urinary system in good condition:        

1. Boost Your Cat's Water Intake

Increasing your cat's water intake is crucial for maintaining a healthy urinary tract. A higher water content in urine helps dilute toxins, minerals, and urinary irritants, reducing the likelihood of crystal and stone formation. Concentrated urine is more prone to developing crystals and stones, and irritants can contribute to chronic bladder inflammation. More water intake ensures your cat stays hydrated and urinates more frequently, flushing out toxins and maintaining kidney function.        

Here are some ways to increase your cat's water consumption:        

  • Fresh Water: Cats prefer fresh water. Clean and refill your cat's water bowl daily to encourage more drinking.
  • Canned Food: Wet food contains more water than dry kibble. Incorporating canned food into your cat's diet is an easy way to increase her water intake.
  • Flavored Water: Adding tuna juice or sodium-free chicken broth to your cat's water bowl can make drinking more appealing.
  • Water Fountains: Cats are often attracted to running water. A battery-operated fountain can be more engaging than a regular water bowl, encouraging your cat to drink more.

2. Evaluate Your Cat's Diet

A specialized urinary diet may be beneficial if your cat has experienced urinary health issues. These diets contain controlled levels of minerals, proteins, and bladder protectants to support a healthy urinary tract. Urinary diets typically have restricted amounts of minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium, which can contribute to crystal and stone formation. They also promote slightly acidic urine, discouraging crystal formation. Some diets include glycosaminoglycans, which help protect the bladder lining.        

We suggest Evanger's for urinary tract health. Paws and Fins stocks various labels from the restricted diet foods line for Urinary Tract Health, Kidney Disease, Renal Flaure, Pancreatitis and Digestive issues, Aging and joint issues, and weight control. Wiccan, Mel, and the Paws and Fins Team are ready to support you.      

Evanger's EVX RestrictedEvanger's EVX Restricted 

3. Minimize Environmental Stress

Environmental stress is a significant factor in urinary health and is linked to conditions such as feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Stress can trigger inappropriate elimination and chronic bladder inflammation, leading to pain and potential life-threatening urethral obstructions. Changes in the environment, like a new roommate, baby, pet, or even a different litter brand, can cause stress that manifests as urinary problems.        

Reducing stress and providing a safe, calm environment for your cat can help maintain her urinary health. Consider these stress-reducing strategies:        

  • Daily Litter Scooping: Keep the litter box clean. Some cats refuse to use a dirty box, leading to inappropriate elimination.
  • Consistent Litter Brands: Avoid sudden changes in litter brands. Cats can be particular about their litter; a sudden switch might prompt them to urinate outside the box.
  • Create a Refuge: Designate a quiet, low-traffic area with all your cat's essentials—food, water, litter, a scratching post, a perch, and toys. This space can serve as a sanctuary where your cat can retreat and de-stress.
  • Use Feline Pheromones: Products like Feliway® can reduce stress and promote calmness. Use diffusers in areas where your cat spends most of her time and spray her bedding to ease her stress.

4. Enhance Your Cat's Environment

An enriched indoor environment is essential for your cat's mental and physical health. Boredom can lead to stress-related urinary conditions. Engage your cat's natural hunting instincts and provide stimulating activities to keep her entertained and active.        

Consider these enrichment ideas:        

  • Perches: Cats enjoy observing from high vantage points. A cat tree or window perch can provide hours of entertainment and a safe place to watch the world.
  • Videos: Videos featuring mice, birds, or other animals can keep your cat entertained while you are busy or away.
  • Food Puzzles: Stimulate your cat's hunting instincts by making her work for her food. Use food puzzles or hide small portions of food around the house to create a fun and engaging hunt.
  • Moving Toys: Battery-operated toys or feather wands can encourage your cat to play and exercise, reducing boredom and stress.

5. Regular Veterinary Checkups

Routine veterinary care is crucial for detecting and managing urinary health issues. Annual wellness visits allow your veterinarian to monitor for signs of inflammation, infection, and kidney dysfunction. Cats over eight years old should visit the vet more frequently to maintain good health. A urinalysis can be performed to check for urinary tract issues, and blood work can assess kidney function and detect early signs of kidney failure.        

If you have concerns about your cat's urinary health, consult your veterinarian. They can provide advice and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist for further care.        

Maintaining your cat's urinary health involves proper hydration, a suitable diet, a stress-free environment, engaging activities, and regular veterinary visits. Following these tips can help ensure your feline friend stays healthy and happy.