Treatment of Cystitis in Cats

Some cats are plagued by recurring bouts of cystitis, or irritation of the bladder, for most of their lives. Although the real cause of cystitis in cats is unknown, veterinarians suspect all-dry food diets and stress are the main culprits. Lifestyle and dietary changes as well as medication are often part of the treatment for cats with cystitis.

  1. Prone to Cystitis

    • According to veterinarians Dennis J. Chew and C.A.T. Buffington, cats who are prone to cystitis are typically indoor cats whose diets consist of 75 to 100 percent dry food. Their owners often describe them as nervous, fearful or aggressive.

    Symptoms of Cystitis

    • Signs of cystitis in cats include urinating outside the litter box, frequent trips to the box but producing very little urine, blood in the urine, straining to urinate and crying out while urinating.

    Medication

    • Although cystitis in cats is rarely caused by a bacterial infection in the bladder, many veterinarians prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and prevent secondary infection. Butorphanol, Valium and valerian can also be used for their antispasmodic properties and to relieve stress.

    Natural Treatments

    • Some cats with cystitis benefit from vitamin C (Ester-C), vitamin E and cranberries. All are available as capsules from health food stores. The contents of the capsules can be mixed into the cat's food.

    Wet Food

    • Wet food keeps the urine dilute and minimizes bladder irritation. Cats who are prone to cystitis should not eat dry food.

    Stress Relief

    • Providing litter boxes and food in several locations can reduce stress in multicat households. Floor-to-ceiling cat trees will also reduce stress by increasing the cats' usable space. An outdoor enclosure or taking indoor cats outside on a harness and leash will reduce stress and boredom.