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Are male orange cats prone to UTIs? Does grain-free food prevent them?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 years and 9 months old | 14 lbs

We have an adult male orange cat. Is it true that there is a higher likelihood of male orange cats developing urinary tract problems? He has not had any issues but I want to be proactive in his healthcare. We feed him a grain-free diet (American Journey). Is the grain-free diet beneficial against urinary tract problems?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 28th, 2019

There have not been any major studies showing that orange cats develop more urinary tract issues than other cats, but some people believe there is anecdotal evidence . Wet food with water added and stress reduction may help reduce the risk of urinary tract issues, but there have not been any major studies showing that grain free diets can help prevent urinary issues. Grain free diets may be linked to heart disease in dogs, but studies in cats are pending. https://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/newsevents/cvmupdates/ucm613305.htm See the link below and consult with your vet about the best food for Stewart https://talkspetfood.aafco.org/rightpetfood . You may also need to make some adjustments so you can help keep your home a low stress and comfortable place for Stewart, as stress can lead to urianry issues in cats. Cats need at least one litterbox per cat plus one extra to help reduce stress associated with the litterbox. They should be placed in separate rooms, away from the food and water bowls, must be scooped at least daily (preferably multiple times a day) and washed out at least weekly with a mild soap, followed by thorough rinsing. Cats need a lot of space to explore, but keeping them indoors is much safer than letting them outside, due to the risk of injury from cars, wildlife, other animals, etc. The key is providing space (particularly vertical space for climbing, such as cat trees, ledges, and the like) inside the home. Visit http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=T&C=33&S=2 , healthcareforpets.com and https://indoorpet.osu.edu// for tips on stress reduction. Also look into Feliway, a synthetic pheromone that is available in a diffuser and spray form that promotes calm feelings in cats http://www.feliway.com

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for the additional details. It isn't necessarily true the orange cats have more issues, just that males seem to have more issues with blockage due to their small urethra. I have never read any studies where grain free is more or less beneficial for urinary health. The problem is that one cat can process the same foodd differently as another cat. Certain cats will have a higher or lower urine pH (normal is 6-7) on certain foods which will make them more prone to urinary issues. Also, cats that are more anxious will have increased urinary issues. Again, it is impossible to predict who will have issues. I think it would be fine to start Stewart on this diet and if he starts having issues, you can always change later. You could also put him on cosequin for cats which is a joint supplement but also increases the mucus in the lining of the bladder acting as a natural anti-inflammatory. This has been proven to decrease urinary problems. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for the additional details. It isn't necessarily true the orange cats have more issues, just that males seem to have more issues with blockage due to their small urethra. I have never read any studies where grain free is more or less beneficial for urinary health. The problem is that one cat can process the same foodd differently as another cat. Certain cats will have a higher or lower urine pH (normal is 6-7) on certain foods which will make them more prone to urinary issues. Also, cats that are more anxious will have increased urinary issues. Again, it is impossible to predict who will have issues. I think it would be fine to start Stewart on this diet and if he starts having issues, you can always change later. You could also put him on cosequin for cats which is a joint supplement but also increases the mucus in the lining of the bladder acting as a natural anti-inflammatory. This has been proven to decrease urinary problems. I hope this helps!

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    3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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