An epidemiological survey of the feline urological syndrome

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Abstract
An epidemiological survey of the feline urological (or urolithiasis) syndrome (FUS) was carried out from 1 October 1973 to 30 September 1974. Details of 437 FUS cases were recorded by veterinary surgeons in thirty‐three practices. An independent market research organisation collected corresponding details, where applicable, of 604 pet cats selected randomly from the pet cat population of the practice areas.Total incidence of reported cases was estimated at about 0.64% of the domestic cat population in one year. The number of cases of FUS was highest in the autumn and winter of 1973 and then decreased to the end of the survey period.Comparison of clinical and control surveys showed an association of the disease with several factors. These included age, diet and neutering (especially of male animals). By comparison with the controls, FUS cats tended to drink less, to be fed on dry cat food, to be considered lazy, taking little exercise, to have less freedom to leave the house at will and to be provided with indoor urinating facilities. There was also some evidence of an association with the brand of dry cat food and with the number of cats in the household. These factors were not necessarily either causative agents or additive in effect. A follow‐up survey revealed a FUS mortality of 22% (90/403 cats) at 6 months after the survey episode, the majority dying or being put down in the first week. The death‐rate was higher in males. Further episodes were noted in 32% of the cats followed up. The rate of recurrence was the same in those cats (68%) whose diet had been changed after the initial episode.