Cystitis, also known as bladder inflammation, is a common condition in cats. It can cause discomfort and lead to serious health issues if not treated promptly.

This article provides an overview of the symptoms, causes, effects, and treatment of cystitis in cats.

Symptoms

Cats with cystitis often exhibit the following symptoms¹²³⁴:

• Frequent urination or attempts to urinate
• Urinating in inappropriate places, such as outside the litter tray
• Painful urination
• Presence of blood in the urine

• Over-grooming around the genitals and lower abdomen, often causing hair loss
• In severe cases, the urethra can become obstructed and the cat cannot pass urine, which can be fatal¹

Causes

Cystitis in cats can develop for many reasons¹²⁵:

• Infections
• Bladder stones
• Tumours
• Stress or anxiety
• Urine crystals (mineral build-up in the urinary tract)

The most common cause of cystitis in cats under 10 years is Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC), where no specific cause is found or known¹².

Research suggests that both FIC and interstitial cystitis in people are caused by an abnormal stress hormone response in susceptible individuals¹.

Effects

Cystitis can have serious effects on a cat’s health.

It is a painful condition as the bladder and urethra become inflamed¹.

FIC, in particular, is usually recurrent, with repeated bouts causing damage and thickening of the bladder wall¹.

In severe cases, the urethra can become obstructed, preventing the cat from passing urine, which can be fatal¹.

Treatment

Treatment for feline cystitis traditionally involves increasing water intake, which has been shown to improve the outcome¹.

Various medicines, including nutraceuticals, antidepressants, and anti-spasm drugs, have also been used¹.

However, none of these medicines are curative, and it is hard to prove a clear benefit associated with their use¹.

In recent years, stress reduction, alongside increasing water intake, has been studied as a treatment for FIC¹.

This method, called Multimodal Environmental Modification (MEMO), involves assessing stressors, triggers, the cat’s behavior, and the home environment, then undertaking measures to modify the environment and reduce stress¹.

In some cases, your vet may recommend a supplement or, in some cases, an antidepressant drug, such as amitriptyline⁴.

Conclusion

Cystitis in cats is a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary attention. If your cat is showing signs of cystitis, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

With the right treatment and care, most cats with cystitis can lead comfortable and healthy lives.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your veterinarian. If your cat shows symptoms, please consult your veterinarian immediately.