Revisiting feline urinary tract health: the role of diet and acidifying agents in urolith prevention and long-term cat health

Lay Summary Urinary tract diseases are a frequent health issue in cats and a common reason for veterinary visits. A major concern is urinary stone formation, which can cause discomfort and clinical signs in cats. Diet is a practical way to support urinary tract health and lower the risk of urinary stone formation, especially struvite stones. Many commercial cat foods have adopted strategies to support urinary tract health. These typically aim to keep urine slightly acidic, balance mineral levels, and support hydration to increase urine volume and reduce solute concentration. However, prioritizing these outcomes in formulation may not always align with marketing goals for other product claims. Current trends toward clean-label formulations may reduce the use of synthetic urinary acidifiers, ingredients that help lower urine pH and have proven efficacy. At the same time, some acidifiers may have potential adverse health effects, and their long-term effects in cats are not well characterized, while others do not pose this concern but may not be perceived well by consumers. Consumer education and continued research into alternative ingredients and formulation strategies are warranted. Above all, prioritizing urinary tract health in formulations is essential to support the health and well-being of cats.