Increase your cat’s water intake. Provide multiple, fresh water sources throughout your home, using different types of bowls (ceramic, stainless steel) to find your cat’s preference. Consider adding a pet water fountain; the running water often encourages drinking.
Dietary Adjustments
Feed a high-quality diet with controlled levels of magnesium. Excess magnesium can contribute to urinary stone formation. Look for diets specifically formulated for urinary tract health. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations tailored to your cat’s specific needs and age.
Monitor your cat’s food and water intake. Notice any changes in appetite, thirst or urination frequency. Urinary tract infections often manifest as increased urination and straining.
Lifestyle Changes
Maintain a healthy weight for your cat. Obesity strains the urinary tract and increases the risk of UTIs. Regular exercise helps with weight management and overall health. Even short play sessions several times a day make a difference.
Provide regular veterinary checkups. Preventative care is key to early detection and treatment of UTIs. Annual or semi-annual visits allow your veterinarian to monitor your cat’s health and address any concerns promptly.
Litter Box Management
Ensure clean litter boxes are readily accessible. Cats may avoid using soiled litter boxes, increasing the risk of urinary retention and UTIs. Use clumping litter to make cleaning easier.
Multiple litter boxes are essential, especially in multi-cat households. The general rule is one litter box per cat plus one extra.
