UTI in Cats: Exploring the Signs, Causes, and Treatment Options

Your usually playful and cuddly kitty is suddenly urinating outside the litter box and showing signs of discomfort. As a loving pet owner, such a change in behavior can be deeply concerning!

One potential cause of these symptoms is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Although relatively rare in cats, UTIs can be quite painful and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Many other more common conditions can also mimic UTI symptoms, making prompt diagnosis and treatment extremely important.

Below, we’ll delve into the details of UTIs in cats. From recognizing the signs to exploring treatment options and preventive measures, here’s what you need to know to keep your feline friend’s urinary tract in tip-top shape!

What is a Cat Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) in cats is a bacterial infection in the bladder that affects the urinary system, causing symptoms such as frequent urination, straining to urinate, and blood in the urine. UTIs are relatively rare in cats unless they have an underlying condition that predisposes them to infections.

Lower Urinary Tract Issues in Cats

Lower urinary tract issues are more common in cats than UTIs and fall under the umbrella term Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD). The lower urinary tract consists of the bladder and urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to where it exits the body.

Issues that can affect the lower urinary tract include:

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Bladder Stones
Urethral Obstruction
Crystalluria (Crystals in the urine)
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)
Tumors or Polyps in the Urinary Tract or Urethra

These conditions can all present with similar symptoms, so testing is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Among these issues, FIC is very common in cats and can cause inflammation in the bladder and lead to a secondary infection. The exact cause is often unknown, but stress is believed to be a contributing factor.

Being on the lookout for potential urinary tract issues helps ensure that your kitty receives appropriate care as quickly as possible. Early detection and treatment are vital for preventing unnecessary pain and discomfort for your kitty and potential complications that could require more extensive treatment.

How Do Cats Get UTIs?

UTIs in cats are caused by a bacterial infection. The infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. Certain health conditions, like diabetes, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism, can predispose a cat to UTIs by weakening the immune system or altering the urinary tract environment, making it easier for bacteria to thrive.

Bladder stones can also irritate the bladder lining or obstruct urine flow, creating an environment conducive to bacteria growth. Cats that have poor grooming habits or are unable to groom themselves properly due to obesity or arthritis may also be at higher risk if dirt and bacteria accumulate around the genital area.

Stress and dehydration can also contribute to the development of UTIs and FLUTD. Additionally, female cats are more prone to urinary tract infections because they have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Signs of UTI in Cats

Recognizing the signs of a UTI in cats is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly. Delayed treatment can lead to unnecessary pain for your kitty, worsening of their condition, or even serious complications.

Frequent Urination: Cats with UTIs often attempt to urinate more frequently than usual but may only pass small amounts of urine each time.
Straining to Urinate: You may notice your cat straining to urinate or showing signs of discomfort while trying to urinate. This can be mistaken for constipation.
Blood in the Urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a common sign of a UTI. You may notice pink, red, or dark-colored urine.
Painful Urination: Cats with UTI may cry out, whine, or show other signs of pain while urinating.
Urinating Outside the Litter Box: A cat with a UTI may start urinating in unusual places, such as on the floor or in the bathtub or sink.
Licking the Genital Area: Overgrooming and excessive licking of the genital area may indicate discomfort or irritation caused by a UTI.
Strong Odor: Urine from a cat with a UTI may have an unusually strong or unpleasant smell.
Changes in Behavior: Cats suffering from UTI may show general signs of feeling unwell, such as fever, irritability, lethargy, or decreased appetite.

It’s important to remember that any of these signs could indicate urinary tract issues, which can be very painful or even life-threatening. If your cat is presenting with one or more of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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SEE ALSO: Allergies in Cats

What to Know About Urinary Obstruction in Cats

A urinary obstruction is a medical emergency that requires immediate care. Delayed treatment can lead to serious complications, including kidney damage and even death. If you suspect your cat may have a urinary obstruction, seek emergency veterinary assistance right away.

Urinary obstruction occurs when the urethra becomes blocked, preventing urine from leaving the body. Due to their narrower urethras, this condition is more common in male cats, but it can also affect female cats.

Signs of a urinary obstruction can be similar to those of a UTI, but you may also notice bloating or swelling of the abdomen, decreased energy levels, vomiting, lack of appetite, and signs of extreme pain or distress when attempting to urinate.

Diagnosing and Treating a UTI in Cats

Making an accurate diagnosis is a crucial step for directing the course of treatment. Diagnosing UTIs in cats usually starts with a physical examination and a urinalysis to examine the urine for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells, crystals, and other other indicators of poor urinary tract health or abnormalities..

If a UTI is suspected, a urine culture will be performed to identify the specific bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotic for treatment. Additional diagnostic procedures, such as blood work or ultrasound, may also be recommended to rule out other urinary tract issues or underlying heath conditions.

UTIs in cats are treated with an antibiotic based on the results of the urine culture. In cases of severe UTI or urinary obstruction, life-saving fluid therapy may be necessary to help flush out bacteria and maintain hydration. Pain medications or anti-inflammatories may also be prescribed to keep your kitty more comfortable until the treatment takes effect.

Additional treatments or procedures may also be recommended based on the underlying cause of your cat’s urinary issue. A second urinalysis is sometimes performed after the full course of the antibiotic has been administered to ensure the infection has cleared.

Caring for a Cat with a UTI

When caring for a cat with a UTI at home, be sure to administer all medications exactly as prescribed by your vet. Complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if your cat seems to be feeling better. If you stop early, the infection could reoccur or become antibiotic-resistant.

Always provide fresh, clean water, and consider a pet water fountain to encourage drinking. Incorporating wet food into your cat’s diet can also increase their hydration. Keep the litter box clean to reduce the risk of bacteria buildup.

It’s also important to keep the environment as calm and stress-free as possible. Try not to make any unnecessary changes to your cat’s routine, which could slow down recovery.

What About Home Remedies for UTI in Cats?

If you’ve been Googling UTI in cats, you’ve probably come across numerous home remedies, like probiotics, apple cider vinegar, cranberry, and more. While supplements can sometimes be appropriate for long-term prevention in some cats, they cannot treat an infection or heal a current urinary problem.

Delaying appropriate treatment to try a home remedy will only prolong your cat’s suffering and could lead to serious complications. Before giving your pet any medication, supplement, or home remedy, talk to your vet to ensure the plan is not only effective, but safe for your kitty.

What’s the Prognosis for a Cat with a UTI?

The prognosis for a cat with a UTI is generally positive when the condition is diagnosed and treated promptly. Most cats recover fully when the infection is addressed with appropriate antibiotics, and symptoms typically begin to improve within a few days.

However, managing a UTI in cats with certain underlying conditions or a severe infection can be more complicated and may require additional treatment or a longer recovery period. If your cat is prone to recurring UTIs, it’s important to collaborate with your veterinarian for additional testing, support, and monitoring to manage its condition.

Preventing UTIs in Cats

Preventing UTIs in cats requires a proactive combination of good health practices, environmental management, and regular veterinary care. Here are some important steps you can take to reduce the risk of UTIs for your feline best friend:

Maintain Proper Hydration: Ensure that your cat always has access to fresh, clean water, and encourage drinking by using a pet water fountain or placing multiple water bowls around your home.
Keep the Litter Box Clean: Scoop the litter box daily and be observant of any changes in urine quantity or color, which could indicate a developing urinary tract issue. Change the litter regularly to prevent bacterial growth, and if you have more than one cat, provide one box per cat, plus one extra to ensure your cats always have access to a clean box.
Monitor and Manage Diet: Talk to your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that support urinary health and are appropriate for your kitty.
Reduce Stress: Minimize stressors in your cat’s environment by providing quiet, comfortable spaces and a stable routine.
Help Your Kitty with Hygiene: Cats who are overweight or have arthritis may need help keeping their backsides clean. If necessary, enlist the help of a professional groomer to prevent matting and the accumulation of dirt and bacteria around the genital area.
Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor your cat’s overall health and address any potential issues before they become serious. For cats with known risk factors, regular screenings can help detect issues that may contribute to UTIs.

Prioritizing Your Cat’s Urinary Tract Health

Understanding and managing your cat’s urinary tract health is essential for ensuring your kitty remains comfortable and healthy. By prioritizing your cat’s urinary tract health, you can help prevent UTIs and other urinary tract issues and address them quickly if they arise.

If your cat is showing urinary symptoms, reach out to the experts at Bond Vet right away. Our veterinary team offers telehealth visits as well as in-person primary and urgent care assistance at several convenient locations. Click here to find a clinic near you!