The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Royal Canin have teamed up to protect the human-cat bond by delivering important information to cat owners about their cats’ urinary health.
Studies show that 60 percent of cat owners say they only take their cat to the veterinarian when they notice something is wrong, but cats are notorious for hiding pain, making it difficult for owners to recognize a health issue. For example, over 90 percent of cats with feline lower urinary tract signs have blood in their urine indicating a medical condition, but less than half of owners recognize the signs. Instead, these signs may be misinterpreted as a behavioral issue, negatively impacting the human-cat bond.
“Helping cat owners stay curious and informed about their cat’s health, even when it comes to litter box behavior, leads to healthier, happier lives together,” said Steven Feldman, president of HABRI. “Our cats do so much for us, which is why we need to do more for them.”
Research shows that cats can serve as a source of social and emotional support for their owners and can help reduce stress, support older adults as they age and improve heart rate and blood pressure. HABRI and Royal Canin are working to strengthen the human-animal bond and improve the veterinary care that cats receive by spotlighting the science of the human-animal bond and important information about cat health.
“Research shows that house soiling is the No. 1 reason that cats are relinquished to a shelter, yet many cats presenting to veterinary clinics with lower urinary signs are diagnosed with a medical condition,” said Dr. Angela Hughes DVM PhD, scientific communications veterinarian for Royal Canin.
