A cat named Celyn, had been experiencing recurrent severe urinary infections for years, however, when a urine sample was sent for culture the result was sterile so the problem was thought to be stress related. Celyn presented with cystitis-like symptoms that she lived with most of the time. In these cases, her symptoms include frequent trips to the litter tray, drinking more, and crying constantly, moving from place to place and scratching. Even though she would use her litter tray, she would also urinate in inappropriate places such as the kitchen cupboard and the bath. When in the bath she would frantically scratch at the sides, then squat and strain, but very little would come out. Her bladder felt small rather than full, so it was not thought to be a blockage.

When she has these flare-ups, they are treated with Metacam and gabapentin, which initially worked well. Over time, however, they became less effective, and there was increasing concern about how frequently these medications were being used. After the success with Molly (see canine section), the senior vet, Sophie asked whether the oils might help Celyn.

We worked together over zoom on Sunday 15th February 2026. At the time Celyn was experiencing cystitis but not severe. A week earlier it had been particularly severe. As stress was suspected to be a contributing factor, valerian root essential oil was offered first. Celyn took a few sniffs and then ran off. When she returned to the room, she was offered sandalwood, lemon, and bitter almond. She interacted with all three, staying close to the oils, but was more focused on the bitter almond, followed by sandalwood. She worked with them for around 20 minutes, returning repeatedly for top-ups.

Sophie takes up the story from here ‘Good evening, Caroline an update for you. It’s like a miracle!!! In the evening, Celyn came back to sit on the chair where we offered the oils. I offered a top up, but she didn’t stay with the oils for very long. She spent a long time outside which she hasn’t done in ages. Her movements seem lighter and more fluid- she was prancing around like a show pony; it reminded me of when she was young.

Normally in the morning both cats follow me around getting under my feet screaming for food, which they either eat or just look at me and keep pestering. Neither did that this morning and they seemed relaxed and content. I’ve seen no sign of the cystitis and the litter tray was dry this morning and even this evening. Normally it’s wet again soon after I change it, as she uses it so frequently. So, a massive, massive improvement. I honestly can’t believe how quickly it happened. I offered the oils again, which she took, but she removed herself much sooner.”

On Saturday 21st February, I received another update from Sophie; “Celyn is still absolutely fine, no sign of cystitis. Though, this morning was the first time there was a wee in the litter tray. I offered oils Monday evening and Wednesday morning, and she didn’t seem that interested. Yesterday though she seemed a bit needy and when I offered her oils, she wanted to work with them for a long time. It’s incredible and I can’t understand why it’s not more mainstream. Honestly, Caroline she’s a different cat, like her younger self again.