How do I know if my cat has a urinary tract infection?
Although urinary tract issues are often seen in cats, the culprit is more likely to be feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) than an actual urinary tract infection.
That said, when cats develop urinary tract infections (UTIs), it is often the result of an endocrine disease such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes. Cats who suffer from UTIs are typically ten years of age or older.
The most common symptoms of urinary tract infections in cats include straining to urinate, reduced amounts of urine, not urinating at all, pain or discomfort when urinating, passing urine tinged with blood, and urinating around the house, outside the litter box.
If your cat shows any of the symptoms listed above, it could indicate suffering from UTI or FLUTD. Either way, you should seek veterinary care for your feline friend.
What causes urinary tract infections in cats?
UTIs are a complex condition to diagnose and treat because they have multiple causes and contributing factors. Crystals, stones, or debris can gradually build up in your cat's urethra—the tube connecting the bladder to the outside of your cat’s body—or in the bladder itself.
Some other common causes of lower urinary tract issues in cats include:
- Incontinence due to excessive water consumption or weak bladder
- Spinal cord issues
- Urethral plug caused by the accumulation of debris from urine
- Bladder infection, inflammation, urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Injury or tumor in the urinary tract
- Congenital abnormalities
- Emotional or environmental stressors
Urinary tract disease in cats is most often diagnosed in overweight, middle-aged cats who have little to no access to the outdoors, eat a dry food diet, or do not get enough physical activity. However, cats of any age can become afflicted. Male cats are also more prone to urinary diseases since they have a narrower urethra that is more likely to become blocked.
If your cat is diagnosed with a UTI, it is essential to determine the underlying cause. UTI symptoms can be caused by a range of serious underlying health issues, from bladder stones or infection to cancer or a blockage.
If your vet cannot determine the cause of your cat's UTI, your cat may be diagnosed with a urinary tract infection called cystitis, which is bladder inflammation. If this is the case, your vet will prescribe your cat an antibiotic to help fight the UTI.
Symptoms of Feline Urinary Tract Disease in Cats
If your cat has UTI or a cat urinary tract infection, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Inability to urinate
- Loss of bladder control
- Urinating small amounts
- Urinating more than usual or in inappropriate settings
- Avoidance or fear of litter box
- Strong ammonia odor in urine
- Hard or distended abdomen
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Drinking more water than usual
- Excessive licking of the genital area
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
Any bladder or urinary issues must be treated as early as possible. Allowing the condition to go untreated could lead to a completely blocked urethra. This is an emergency as your cat will not be able to pee at all and could experience kidney failure or a ruptured bladder.
Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infections
Your vet will conduct a thorough physical examination to evaluate your cat's symptoms and perform a urinalysis to gather more information about its condition. Additionally, they may perform further diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or blood work, to diagnose your cat's condition accurately.
What can you give a cat for a urinary tract infection?
Urinary issues in cats can be complex and serious, so the first step should be to make an appointment with your veterinarian for immediate care. The underlying cause of your cat's symptoms will dictate which treatment is prescribed, but may include:
- Increasing your kitty's water consumption
- Antibiotics or medication to relieve symptoms
- Modified diet
- Expelling of small stones through the urethra
- Urinary acidifiers
- Fluid therapy
- Urinary catheter or surgery for male cats to remove urethral blocks
What's the recovery time for a cat urinary tract infection?
Most cats fully recover within seven to ten days after developing a urinary tract infection. Your vet may check a urine sample after treatment to determine if all the bacteria have been eliminated.
Occasionally, cats may experience recurrent urinary tract infections. If any symptoms come back, please get in touch with your vet immediately.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.