Understanding Urinary Health in the Egyptian Mau

Quick answer

The Egyptian Mau is a breed that requires close observation regarding urinary health. While many cats experience occasional discomfort, this breed has a recognised tendency toward specific types of bladder stones and lower urinary tract irritation. By keeping a close eye on your cat's litter box habits and acting quickly if you notice straining or changes in frequency, you can help manage these risks effectively.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease is a broad term used to describe conditions that affect the bladder and urethra. For the Egyptian Mau, this is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one. Owners often notice this condition when a cat begins to visit the litter box more frequently than usual, yet produces very little urine. You might also observe your cat licking their genital area excessively or appearing restless and distressed while attempting to urinate.

When you visit the clinic, the veterinarian will perform a physical examination to check for a hard or painful bladder. They will likely collect a urine sample to check for the presence of blood, inflammation, or crystals. An ultrasound or X-ray may also be used to visualize the bladder wall and ensure there are no physical blockages. The most common mistake owners make is assuming a cat is constipated when they are actually struggling to urinate. If your cat is in the litter box repeatedly without success, this requires immediate attention.

Urolithiasis

Urolithiasis refers to the formation of stones within the urinary tract. In the Egyptian Mau, there is a recognised tendency toward the development of urate uroliths. These stones form when minerals in the urine crystallize, creating hard structures that can cause significant pain or physical obstruction. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, and the exact way this passes down is not settled.

At home, you might notice your cat straining to pass urine or finding small spots of blood in the litter box. Sometimes, the cat may begin to urinate in unusual places around the home because they associate the litter box with the pain of passing a stone. A veterinarian will use imaging techniques like X-rays or ultrasound to locate these stones. Depending on the size and location of the uroliths, the vet may suggest a specialized diet to help dissolve them or surgical intervention to remove them. Never wait to see if the cat will simply pass the stone on their own, as a blockage can become a life-threatening emergency very quickly.