We’ve been telling everyone that Ezmerelda hates our phones. She often will knock them right out of our hands, sit on them or put her hand on it, with a disapproving look. Today, I got proof…she did not appreciate it. It’s pretty cute though…she loves freshly bleached surfaces. And don’t worry, the counter top was dry.

Day after day, I talk to customers who have cats that are prone to U.T.I.s or crystals in the urine…aside from conversations about cats who won’t eat, this is the most common problem in cats these days. So what do we do about it?

I’m pretty sure, if you’ve ever talked to me about cat nutrition or read this blog, you know what I’m going to say…don’t feed kibble. I realize that I’m like a broken record when it comes to kibble but that’s because, well, I’m right. Cats need moisture from their food, plain and simple. That is how their body works and we keep attempting to change that, and failing. I also realize that there are cats who won’t give up the kibble and that some cat parents can’t afford all wet food. Believe me, I get it. So, what’s a person to do? I’ll give you some tips.

First, feed a little bit of wet food every day. A little extra moisture can go a long way in keeping your kitty hydrated. Second, feed a high quality, high meat, low to no-carb food. That goes for kibble and wet. Cats don’t need veggies or fruits, the PH levels of plant matter is the opposite of what the feline body requires (which can lead to crystals). Third, make sure the litter box is clean, all the time. I clean my litter boxes twice a day, because it only takes a one bacteria to get into the body to cause a UTI…especially in female cats. So make it a habit. Scoop in the morning and at night and change out the litter, entirely, once a month. Forth, try to get your cat to drink more fluids. You can use tuna juice, low sodium meat broth or any meaty juice.

Remember, your cat may drink but the way they drink is not adequate enough to make up for the lack of moisture in their food. Get creative and email me with questions or tricks you’ve learned.