Urinary problems in cats have increased during the Covid pandemic, according to a new survey. The research, by pet brand Royal Canin, revealed that vets have seen a 39 per cent rise in urinary disorders since 2019.
The rise has been linked to increased levels of stress caused by changes in our routines. Elisabete Capitao, vet and vet marketing manager at Royal Canin, said: “The lockdown has been a stressful time for many owners, but it can also be stressful for our pets. Our normal routines have completely changed for many of us in the past year. These changes can also cause our pets — particularly cats — to become stressed too, which can lead to urinary problems. “A lot of cats like routine, but lockdown has meant that we have been at home a lot more than normal, which can unsettle them. Add home-schooled children into the mix, and there is a lot more noise and fewer quiet places for our cats to escape to, which all adds to cats’ stress.
SIGNS YOUR CAT HAS A URINARY PROBLEM
If your cat is suffering with a urinary problem they may:
- Try to urinate more often and only urinate a little, or may fail to do so at all.
- Look strained or show signs of pain when urinating and stay in a urinating position for longer than normal.
- Cry out while trying to urinate.
- Lick their genital area excessively.
- Have blood in their urine.
- Urinate outside of their litter tray.
Contact your vet for advice if you notice any of these changes in your cat’s behaviour.
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