Feline lower urinary tract disease occurs more frequently in which type of animal?

• A. Cats fed mostly dry food
• B. Cats that are stressed
• C. Male cats
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Feline lower urinary tract disease is influenced by several risk factors, and each of these contributes to higher likelihoods of the condition. Cats fed mostly dry food tend to drink less water overall, which can make urine more concentrated and promote bladder irritation or crystal formation that can lead to urinary problems. Stress is a well-recognized trigger for urinary signs in cats, particularly in idiopathic cystitis, where anxiety and environmental factors can worsen bladder function and reduce urination efficiency. Male cats are more prone to urethral obstruction because their urethra is narrower and longer, making it easier for stones or crystals to lodge and block flow. When a cat has any of these risk factors, the chances of developing FLUTD increase, and taken together they cover the main ways the disease is commonly seen. All of the above.