If your Sphynx cat is suddenly straining to pee, squatting longer than usual in the litter box, or showing signs of discomfort, you’re not alone. You’re right to be concerned. These are some of the earliest warning signs that your cat may be dealing with urinary crystals.
Urinary crystals are tiny mineral formations that can irritate the bladder lining, cause painful urination, and in severe cases can block the urinary tract and become a life-threatening emergency.
Let’s break down what you need to know to protect your cat and prevent this issue from becoming a chronic problem.
Common Symptoms of Urinary Crystals
Long periods of squatting while trying to urinate
Slow or weak urine stream
Blood in the urine
Straining with little or no urine output
Frequent licking of the genital area
One of the most dangerous red flags is when your cat appears to be straining but nothing is coming out. This could signal a urinary blockage and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Two Types of Crystals, Two Different Causes
There are two main types of urinary crystals in cats:
1. Struvite Crystals
These occur when your cat’s urine is too alkaline (high pH). Common causes include dehydration and diets that don’t support urinary health. Struvite crystals can often be managed or dissolved naturally by acidifying the urine.
One way to help safely lower urine pH is by using a high-quality, liposomal liquid Vitamin C, such as our RenewedPet® Liquid Pet Vitamin-C, which offers gentle urinary support while also strengthening the immune system.
2. Calcium Oxalate Crystals
These form when your cat’s urine is too acidic (low pH). While less common, oxalate crystals are harder to dissolve and can be more dangerous long-term. One of the best ways to prevent oxalate crystals is by feeding a diet rich in fresh, moisture-rich foods that support proper urinary pH and hydration levels.
Check out our Top Pet Food Recommendations for moisture-dense, nutrient-balanced foods that support urinary and overall health.
Why Antibiotics May Not Help
Far too often, when a cat shows signs of urinary trouble, they’re handed a prescription for antibiotics—even when no actual bacterial infection is present. But this approach misses the root of the problem. It can make things worse by:
Disrupting the gut microbiome
Weakening the immune system
Increasing the risk of future infections
Failing to address the cause of the crystal formation
If your vet discovers urinary crystals, it’s important to ask which type, and then take a diet-based, natural approach to correction and prevention.
Skip the Prescription Diets
Despite what you’ve been told, you don’t need to rely on expensive, long-term prescription diets to manage urinary health. Many of those diets are heavily processed, low in moisture, and lack the variety of nutrients your cat needs to thrive.
Through targeted supplementation, hydrating whole foods, and better understanding of pH balance, you can naturally support your Sphynx’s urinary system without compromising their long-term health.
Final Thoughts
Urinary crystals are serious, but they are also manageable—and more importantly, preventable.
By tuning into your cat’s symptoms, asking the right questions, and feeding a diet tailored to their needs, you can help your Sphynx feel better, faster and keep them well for the long term.
If you’ve tried everything and still aren’t seeing results, don’t go it alone.
You can schedule a personalized consultation with me right here. Let’s work together to get your sweet one feeling like themselves again.
