Changing paradigms of feline idiopathic cystitis

Since 1996, when the authors assembled the existing body of knowledge about lower urinary tract disease in cats, the understanding of the biological behavior and pathologic features of naturally occurring feline idiopathic cystitis has increased. No single model explains all the biological variability observed in cats with idiopathic cystitis. The authors' experience and available evidence indicate that feline idiopathic cystitis represents a syndrome resulting from a number of separate underlying but potentially interrelated mechanisms rather than a disease with a single cause. Identification of safe and effective treatment and prevention strategies of feline idiopathic cystitis will likely vary, depending on the underlying causes.