Cat Food for Urinary Tract Problems

Urinary tract infections are a common urinary disorder among cats. Cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder, is another. A more dangerous issue involves the formation of crystals or stones which can lead to deadly complications if not treated. Typically younger cats are less affected, but significant risks may increase with age. Cats should be treated immediately if they exhibit any of the warning signs or symptoms of these conditions. Often a cat’s diet is associated with urinary disorders.

  1. Behavioral Changes Indicate Problems

    • Cats that are experiencing urinary trouble often avoid using their litter box. This is because a negative association between pain and the litter box will cause them search out other places with cool smooth surfaces like bathtubs or tile floors. Additional behaviors like straining or crying out when attempting to urinate, more frequent attempts, blood in urine and excessive licking of genital area are also indicators.

    A Visit to the Veterinarian

    • Veterinarians will begin with a urinalysis to determine if an infection is present, to evaluate pH levels, and to look for any underlying kidney problems. Blockages of the urethra can happen in both male and female cats. It is caused by the formation of crystals in the bladder which become trapped. Males are more prone to this condition, which will lead to uremic poisoning if not corrected quickly. Death can occur in as little as 24 hours when not treated.

    Contributing Factors

    • Dirty litter boxes can introduce bacteria into the urethra. Chronic health conditions like diabetes or kidney problems also increase risk. However, for cats of any age, diet is a primary cause of many urinary problems, because most domestic cats are fed commercial diets. Commonly these diets are made with fillers like ash, contain grains which produce more carbohydrates than cats require, and are inefficient protein sources.

    Dry Cat Food

    • Dry cat food is made up of vegetable-based proteins and not the animal proteins which are more compatible with their digestive system. Cats are carnivores by design, and many are unable to process vegetable proteins adequately. Taurine is the amino acid vital for cats that is missing from vegetable-based proteins. According to Dr. Pierson, DVM, a deficiency in this amino acid can result in numerous additional health problems including blindness and heart problems.

    Canned Cat Food

    • Canned cat food contains the necessary meat-based proteins which also contribute to a more acidic pH level. By contrast, dry diets cause urine to be more alkaline, which leads to problems. Canned foods contain 78 percent water, which according to Dr. Pierson, DVM, is closer to their natural prey moisture content of 70 percent. By comparison, dry cat food only contains 5 to 10 percent water. The cat's hydration level is crucial for good urinary tract health; cats often do not drink enough water.

    Finicky Drinkers

    • Fresh water needs to be available at all times, and should be changed regularly. Ironically most cats drink less while they are experiencing bladder discomfort, but hydration is even more critical during such times. For severe cases, subcutaneous, or IV fluids, may also be required. Cats can be particularly finicky about chlorinated tap water, making filtered water the better choice. Cat water fountains are another great way to entice drinking as many cats enjoy aerated water.