How Much Do You Know About Pet Urinary Health? Preventing
Urinary Tract Infections and Stones
Urinary tract problems are among the most common, painful, and recurrent conditions affecting cats and dogs in Hong Kong. If not addressed promptly, some cases can escalate rapidly and become life‑threatening emergencies.
Conditions such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and urethral obstruction can cause significant distress and may occur suddenly, leaving owners unprepared. Understanding urinary health, recognizing early warning signs, and knowing practical prevention strategies are therefore essential for every pet owner.
A pet’s urinary system filters the blood, removes waste, and regulates water and electrolyte balance—functions that are critical to overall health.
IN CARTS & DOGS
Infection (UTI)
Stones
Obstruction
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC)
- Urolithiasis (urinary stones), e.g. struvite, calcium oxalate, urate, and cystine stones
Among these, struvite uroliths are commonly encountered in practice. They are often associated with urine pH (more likely in alkaline urine), and in some cases bacterial infection. Typical signs include frequent urination, blood in the urine (hematuria), and straining or difficulty urinating. Because recurrence can occur, ongoing monitoring and dietary management are frequently required.
Pets kept indoors may face a higher risk when lifestyle factors are suboptimal—for example low water intake, or an imbalanced diet. Certain groups may also be more susceptible, including Persian cats, neutered male cats, and overweight pets. In cats, stress can further increase risk—such as moving home, introducing a new pet, or home renovations—so owners should be especially vigilant during these periods.
Because pets cannot describe discomfort, urinary disease may present with subtle or easily missed signs. The following are common warning signs owners should recognise and respond to promptly.
IMMEDIATE VETERINARY ATTENTION
to urinate
in urine
when urinating
- Inability to urinate (especially in male cats; may indicate urethral obstruction, a true emergency requiring urgent care)
- Blood in the urine (urine may appear red, pink, or cloudy)
- Vocalising or showing obvious pain while urinating
urination
urinating
toileting behavior
of the genitals
changes
Signs that warrant close monitoring and prompt veterinary assessment
- Frequent urination or difficulty urinating (passing small amounts repeatedly, or straining)
- Abnormal toileting behaviour (e.g., cats urinating outside the litter box; dogs repeatedly asking to go outside)
- Excessive licking of the genital area (may indicate discomfort or irritation)
- Behavioural changes (lethargy, reduced appetite, unusual irritability, or restlessness)
If you observe any of the above, contact your veterinarian for an examination to identify the underlying cause and start appropriate management.
*For pets with urinary issues or at high risk of recurrence, stay on a urinary prescription diet long-term.
**Other signs (e.g., unusual elimination habits, grooming of the groin) should also be closely monitored.
Maintaining a healthy body weight, ensuring access to fresh, clean water at all times, and arranging regular veterinary check-ups are effective measures to reduce urinary disease risk.
At the same time, owners can start with diet and daily habits — such as encouraging more water intake, reducing stress (especially for cats), and maintaining an ideal body weight — to help lower the risk of urinary problems in their pets.
Once a pet is diagnosed with a urinary condition, it is important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendation, which may include switching to a prescription urinary diet. These diets are formulated to address key drivers of crystal and stone formation and commonly aim to:
- Support an appropriate urine pH
- Increase water intake and urine volume
- Manage levels of relevant minerals (e.g., magnesium, phosphorus, calcium), depending on the condition
- If you are considering a prescription urinary diet, consult your veterinarian first to ensure the choice matches your pet’s diagnosis and risk factors
Important rule: While your pet is on a veterinarian‑prescribed urinary diet, do not feed any additional regular food, treats, or human food unless specifically approved by your veterinarian. Even small extras can alter urine pH and mineral balance, significantly reducing—and in some cases negating—the diet’s intended effect.
For pets with a higher risk of recurrence after completing treatment, long‑term use of an appropriate prescription urinary diet may be recommended as a maintenance strategy. These diets are designed to be complete and balanced for long‑term feeding when used under veterinary guidance.
Urinary health has a direct impact on a pet’s comfort, quality of life, and, in severe cases, survival. Missing early signs can lead to serious—sometimes fatal—outcomes.
By recognising symptoms early, providing science‑based dietary management, maintaining healthy daily routines, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help reduce the burden of urinary disease for your pet. If your pet is in a high‑risk group or has a history of urinary issues, speak with your veterinarian about a personalised prevention plan.
Let’s work together to protect our pets’ urinary health—so they can stay comfortable, active, and well by our side.
