Idiopathic Cystitis in Cats
Feline idiopathic cystitis, often abbreviated FIC, is inflammation of the lower urinary tract. The term idiopathic simply means of unknown cause. This can be a frustrating disease because there is no known cause.
Clinical signs of FIC include blood in the urine, straining to urinate and inappropriate urination. Bloodwork is often normal in these cases with possible red blood cells and protein seen on urine samples. Idiopathic cystitis can only be diagnosed by excluding all other possibilities. A distinct inflammatory pattern on the bladder wall can be seen via cystoscopy.
Treatment of idiopathic cystitis may include anti-inflammatories and antispasmodics. FIC has been liked to stress in cats, so some treatment protocols include antidepressants such as amitriptyline.