Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)

What is Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)?

Many young cats with urinary problems end up being diagnosed with FIC. Unlike stones or an infection, this condition is not a concrete finding on a test. If routine tests (urine & blood) are negative in a younger cat with these symptoms, your cat may be suffering from FIC. Urine can be a very corrosive substance with varying pH, crystals
and toxic substances in it. The bladder tissues protect themselves with a lining of proteins, but when the lining of the bladder becomes ‘patchy’, the tissues of the bladder are exposed to the urine resulting in inflammation and pain. In cats with FIC, the lining of the bladder is ‘patchy’. Research has found stress, decreased water intake and age all play a part in having a ‘patchy’ bladder.

How to treat FIC?

No therapy has been found successful when FIC has already started. However, the pain associated with FIC can be managed. The urine that is in contact with the patchy bladder lining, causes spasms and pain. Most episodes of FIC last a week or two regardless of any treatment, but we can make your cat comfortable during this time. Oral pain relief may be provided in the form of an opioid (straight pain relief) and or an anti-inflammatory to reduce inflammation in the bladder.

How to prevent or reduce further FIC episodes?

Increase water intake

Water fountains are a great way to increase water intake.
Keep drinking sources clean and ideally change the water daily.
One water bowl for EACH cat in the house, ideally ceramic or plastic with a wide opening.
Feeding canned (wet) food instead of dry food also helps to increase water intake. (Note: Diets with urinary formulas is appropriate if your cat has crystals in their urine).

Litter tray

Ensure there is a litter box for EACH of your cats and ideally one extra.
Keep litter trays in a well ventilated area and changed regularly.
The tray should be in a private place away from the cat’s food and water areas.
Alternate the type of litter if your cat is urinating outside the tray as they may want to use the tray but dislike the litter type.

Environmental enrichment

Scratching posts and rotate toys available to provide stimulation.
Provide elevated resting and bedding spots for your cat.

Reduce stress in your cat’s environment

Use Feliway (a cat pheromone).
Changes in and around the home can cause stress (eg. Construction, furniture change, new pets in house).