The Prognosis for Feline Idiopathic Cystitis

Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) is an inflammation of the bladder in cats for an unknown reason. FIC usually occurs in indoor, overweight cats that are between one and ten years old. The prognosis for cats that have been diagnosed with this disorder is generally optimistic.

  1. Symptoms and Diagnosis

    • Cats with FIC urinate often but release only a small amount of urine each time or strain when they go. They may also act as if they are in pain or urinate in inappropriate places. The veterinarian will conduct a urinalysis and blood tests to rule out other causes of urinary tract problems.

    Prognosis

    • According to the White Bear Animal Hospital, approximately 85 percent of all cases of FIC clear up on their own within a week whether or not treatment is administered. Many cats only suffer through one or two episodes in their lifetime. However, it can become a recurring problem for other cats.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Cats with FIC need to drink more water. Changing its diet to canned food can help prevent future issues because canned food is 80 percent water. Stress can be a contributing factor as well, so spending quality time grooming or playing with the cat can help reduce its stress level.