What is "Idiopathic Cystitis" in Felines?

It's an inflammation of the bladder for which the cause is not identified. This situation is frequent on cats.

How to know if my cat suffers from a cystitis?

Your cat will experience difficulties urinating and will try to urinate multiple times (sometime with no success) or even have blood in it’s urine.

Are any cats more affected than others?

Yes, there are some predisposed breeds like the Persian.

How will my vet diagnose idiopathic cystitis?

We find this disorder more often in certain cats: often males, sterilized, indoor cats with no outside access, fed with dry food. Some are having some stress living with other cats.

If your cat has such criteria and looking at the symptoms, your vet will probably suspect a urinary condition. The diagnostic is often confirmed by a urinalysis to detect crystals in the urine or bacteria. A cytologic examination of the urines will determine presence of

inflammation. By ruling out all other possible causes of cystitis, your veterinarian will confirm the diagnosis of idiopathic cystitis.

Is there a treatment ?

When medical approach is considered: it consists in decreasing urinary density by increasing the water intake. Environmental or social measures are taken to limit the stress experienced by the animal such as multiplying the number and locations of litter trays, supplying a cat scratcher or even placing a “high view observatory spot.

If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (925) 744-6421, or you can email us at [email protected].