Feline bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTI’s) are a common, often reoccurring problem in cats. This type of infection is most frequently seen in male cats--both neutered and un-neutered, but can impact the health of female cats as well. In many cases, the signs of a urinary infection remain hidden from their owners because cats tend to disguise signs of pain and discomfort. However if left untreated, a feline UTI can lead to the blockage and complete obstruction of the urinary tract leading to permanent damage or death.
Cause
There are many factors that can cause a cat to develop a urinary tract infection. Some of these causes include, but are not limited to:
- Diet - Choose cat food with low levels of magnesium to reduce the risk of kidney stone development.
- Environment - Ensuring the litter box is clean, adequate fresh water is available and a clean home environment will reduce the risk of feline UTI’s.
- Stress - Exposure to stressful changes, including changes to the environment or diet can increase risk factors.
- Gender - Male cats are at increased risk for developing urinary tract infections, development of kidney stones and blockage of the urinary tract.
- Age - As a cat ages, the risk of developing urinary tract infection increases. Cat owners should have their pets kidney function tested on a regular basis once they reach 7 years of age to detect infection, fungus, kidney stones and feline kidney disease.
- Urolithiasis -The formation of kidney stones in the urinary tract. They can cause infection, block the pathways of the bladder and damage the urinary tract if they are passed.
Symptoms
In a healthy state, the bladder is devoid of bacteria. However, when a feline urinary tract infection sets in several common symptoms are visible. These symptoms may occur individually or together.
- Urinating outside the litter box - Cats with UTI’s tend to urinate in cool areas or unusual places. Some locations include tile floors, the bathtub or sink, concrete or the corners of your home.
- Yowling or excessive crying when using the litter box or during urination
- Straining to urinate
- Bloody urine
- Strong urine smell
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive licking of the bladder area
- Redness or irritation of the bladder area
- Inactivity
Diagnosis
Getting the proper diagnosis of a feline bladder infection is essential to the health of your cat. If left untreated, this type of infection can lead to permanent kidney damage, urinary tract damage or death. If it is noticed or suspected a cat can not pass urine, seek veterinary care immediately.
Schedule an appointment with a veterinarian to obtain a proper diagnosis--urinary tract infections can mask other health problems being experienced by a cat such as:
- Viral infections
- Trauma
- Tumors
- Kidney failure
- Crystal formation - Early stages of kidney stone development
- Kidney Stones
A urine sample can be obtained by the owner, but can also be acquired by the veterinarian to perform a urinalysis test. The results will confirm the presence of a urinary tract infection or indicate an alternative health issue.
Treatment
After a feline UTI is confirmed, antibiotics are prescribed by a veterinarian in addition to other treatments if needed. Crystal formation and the development of kidney stones may accompany and cause this type of infection. Discuss all possible options, risk level and treatment during the appointment.
Once a get gets a UTI the odds increase for future infections--especially in male cats. Several methods of diet, supplemental and homeopathic treatments are available and should be discussed during the initial treatment and diagnosis.
Join the Conversation