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Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is a common syndrome in veterinary practice and typically represents 4-6% of cases presented in general practice. While a number of different identifiable causes of FLUTD are recognised, studies have found that feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) accounts for 55-75% of cases. An evidence-based review of the causes and management of FIC is provided, with an emphasis on dietary management and environmental modification.

Encouraging cats to consume more water is an important recommendation in a number of situations, including conditions associated with polyuria or increased fluid loss, lower urinary tract disease, chronic constipation and advanced age. Using different cases from her practice, Dr. Caney provides suggestions for supporting patient hydration and encouraging voluntary fluid intake.

Studies have indicated that water supplements can be highly palatable to cats. These studies demonstrated that cats not only drink more liquid, but maintained higher liquid intake when given access to nutrient-enriched water. Consequently, urine volume increased and urine specific gravity decreased. Cats that need greater hydration would benefit from a water supplement.

Join leading veterinary experts for a case-based discussion on managing diarrhea in puppies and kittens, with a focus on reducing the risk of chronic conditions and promoting optimal health throughout adulthood.

Created for the entire veterinary care team, these sessions will strengthen your knowledge of how nutrition supports the management of common clinical conditions in daily practice.

Learn from globally renowned veterinary experts about the gut microbiome and its powerful influence on systemic health via the gut–brain and gut–skin axes.

Explore future dates and topics of free continuing veterinary education virtual events brought to you by the Purina Institute. 

Cats are efficient at maintaining hydration. However, those cats with certain health conditions may benefit from greater total water intake. Dr. Sparkes provides a brief overview of feline hydration and the conditions in which water intake may be critical for health.