Environmental and behavioral variables associated with lower urinary tract diseases in domestic cats

Abstract

Objectives: Feline lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) is a frequently seen disease with multiple etiologies. Since it is a complex condition, the aim of this study is to evaluate the factors that may affect the development of the disease. Materials and Methods: Demographic, clinical, behavioral and environmental parameters of 30 cats diagnosed with lower urinary tract disease and 15 aged-matched healthy cats presented to Ankara University Small Animal Hospital were evaluated. Results: In the diseased group, the male population was higher and the cats were overweight. The number of food, water and litter boxes and litter material were found to differ significantly between groups. Daily habits such as playing with a scratching board and self-grooming differed between the groups. Inappropriate behaviors observed by the owners of the cats in the first group were listed as urinating/defecating outside the litter box and showing aggression towards the owner, guests, and/or other animals. Conclusions: The results of this study show that the detailed evaluation and regulation of the daily needs of cats is important for the emergence or recurrence of the disease and therefore may contribute to the correct management of the treatment process in cats with lower urinary tract disease.