As many cat owners know, urinary tract problems are a common kitty complaint. In part, that’s because cats evolved as desert animals, and therefore don’t have a strong instinctual drive to drink water. Not taking in enough fluids can result in a scenario where minerals pile-up in the kidneys and bladder, setting the stage for the formation of stones or crystals.
These problems are common enough that you should be on the lookout for these warning signs:
Frequent urination
Urination in places other than the litter box
If he/she strains to urinate
If you see any hint of blood in her urine
And now, there’s evidence to suggest that stress can be one of the primary causes of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). Stress can let loose a flood of hormones that could cause the muscles of the lower urinary tract to constrict. Changes in your routine, a new cat in the home, changes in weather and even a lack of attention can increase your cat’s stress level. You can see how important it is to be in-tune with your cat’s emotional state, and take steps to decrease or eliminate stress in her life.
Additionally, you might consider providing water for your cat using a continuous fountain. The constant motion of the water attracts the attention of cats, hopefully encouraging them to drink more. And, of course, providing fluid-rich canned foods like Instinctive Choice can help boost overall fluid intake, too.
If you take steps now, you might be able to prevent your cat from developing urinary health issues, like FLUTD, helping him or her to live a healthier – and much more comfortable – life.