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Pandemic predisposing influence for feline lower urinary disorders
Carolina C L Paulino1, André Meneses1,2,3, Pedro Almeida1,2,3
1Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Lusófona University, Lisboa University Center, Lisbon, Portugal.
Frontiers in Veterinary Science
|July 1, 2025
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic positively impacted feline lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) outcomes. Increased caregiver presence during lockdowns led to fewer relapses and lower mortality in cats with LUTS.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Feline Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) in cats are common clinical issues.
- The COVID-19 pandemic introduced unique stressors like confinement and increased human interaction.
- These changes may have influenced the presentation and outcomes of feline LUTS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on feline LUTS.
- To assess how increased caregiver presence and confinement-related stress affected LUTS presentation and outcomes.
- To analyze changes in urethral obstruction, recurrence, and mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 298 cats with LUTS from 2019-2021.
- Inclusion criteria: complete examinations including urinalysis, imaging, and urine culture.
- Comparison of a before-pandemic (BP) group and a during-pandemic (DP) group.
Main Results:
- The during-pandemic (DP) group showed significantly fewer relapses (p < 0.001) and lower mortality (p < 0.05) than the before-pandemic (BP) group.
- Urethral obstructions increased in the DP group (p = 0.036), but overall adverse outcomes decreased.
- Cats in the BP group were more likely to experience recurrent LUTS episodes (p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Increased caregiver presence during the pandemic correlated with improved outcomes for feline LUTS.
- Enhanced monitoring and timely veterinary intervention likely contributed to reduced adverse events.
- Greater caregiver engagement may benefit the management of feline lower urinary tract signs.
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