Steps to Avoid Feline Cystitis Reoccurance

If you have been through an episode of feline cystitis with your cat, you know how difficult and painful it can be for all involved. It can be difficult to completely stop cat bladder problems from reappearing. However, in considering some of the risk factors associated with feline cystitis, certain lifestyle habits can keep the feline bladder free from cat urinary problems. Consistency with these habits and follow-up visits to the vet can keep your cat free from feline cystitis even after several episodes.

The Importance of Hydration

Keeping the urine dilute greatly reduces cat urinary problems and a reoccurrence of feline cystitis. Encourage your cat to drink more water by keeping fresh water available at all times. Some cats prefer water that is actually running out of a tap or fountain.

Feeding your cat a high quality canned food will help your cat get the proper amount of moisture in their diet. A cat needs at least 75 to 80% moisture in their diet. Cats absorb water most efficiently through their intestines so food that contains moisture is at least as important as having fresh drinking water available.

Flushing out the Bladder

Cat cystitis is less likely to reoccur if the bladder is emptied frequently. Now that your cat is properly hydrated, encourage frequent litter box use. Some cats will only use a box with completely fresh litter. Keeping the litter box in a quiet location and cleaned twice a day will help prevent a reoccurrence of feline cystitis. Cat bladder problems often lead to the cat having painful associations with the litter box and thus avoiding it. Specific litter box techniques such as rewards for using the box can help your cat flush out their bladder more often.

Controlling Obesity and Encouraging Exercise

Reducing weight in the obese cat can greatly reduce the risks associated with cat cystitis. Cats who exercise are less likely to develop a reoccurrence of feline bladder problems. Feeding a reduced calorie canned food and encouraging play can help control your cat's weight which is directly linked to cat urinary problems. Some studies have also shown that cats who have access to the outdoors are less likely to have feline bladder problems. Although outdoor cats also face more hazards than indoor cats, the access to prey and to many locations for elimination helps keep the feline bladder healthy.

Restricting Meal Times

Restricting meal times also decreases the likelihood of a reoccurrence of feline cystitis. Studies have shown that no matter what the diet, cats that are fed very frequently are more likely to develop feline bladder problems and cat cystitis.

 

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