Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the more common health issues affecting cats, especially those who are older, overweight, or have a history of urinary problems. A UTI can be uncomfortable, painful, and in some cases, it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated. As a responsible cat owner, it’s crucial to be able to recognize the signs of a UTI in your cat and seek timely veterinary care if needed.
This article will explain the symptoms of a UTI in cats, how to recognize them, and what you should do if you suspect your cat has this condition.
What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Cats?
A urinary tract infection in cats occurs when harmful bacteria enter the urinary system, causing inflammation or infection. The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, bladder, ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder), and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). UTIs are more common in the lower urinary tract (the bladder and urethra) but can sometimes affect the upper urinary tract (kidneys).
UTIs in cats are typically caused by bacterial infections, but they can also be linked to other conditions, such as bladder stones, urinary tract blockages, or underlying health issues like diabetes. Certain factors, such as a weakened immune system, dehydration, or poor diet, can make cats more susceptible to UTIs.
Common Symptoms of a UTI in Cats
Cats are good at hiding their discomfort, so you may not always notice a UTI right away. However, there are several signs and symptoms that you can watch out for that may indicate your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection:
1. Frequent Urination
One of the most common signs of a UTI in cats is frequent urination. If your cat is visiting the litter box more often than usual, it may be trying to relieve itself but experiencing discomfort or pain. Cats with UTIs often feel the urge to urinate more frequently but may only pass small amounts of urine at a time.
2. Straining to Urinate
If your cat seems to be straining or having difficulty urinating, this could be a sign that something is blocking the flow of urine or causing discomfort. Cats with UTIs may squat in the litter box and seem to struggle to urinate, but only a small amount of urine is produced. Straining to urinate can also be associated with other conditions like urinary blockages, which require immediate medical attention.
3. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
One of the most noticeable symptoms of a UTI is blood in the urine. This can appear as pink, red, or brown discoloration in the litter box or in your cat’s urine stream. The presence of blood indicates that the urinary tract is inflamed or irritated, which is a common sign of an infection.
4. Inappropriate Urination (Outside the Litter Box)
Cats with UTIs may urinate outside the litter box, often in unusual places like on furniture, carpets, or bedding. This behavior occurs because the cat may associate the litter box with pain and discomfort. If your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the box, it could be a sign of a UTI or another urinary issue.
5. Licking the Genital Area
Cats with a urinary tract infection often lick their genital area more frequently than usual in an attempt to soothe the discomfort. If you notice your cat excessively grooming its bottom or genital region, it could be trying to relieve irritation caused by a UTI.
6. Crying or Meowing While Urinating
If your cat is vocalizing (crying, meowing, or yowling) while urinating, it may be experiencing pain due to a urinary tract infection. This can happen because urination becomes painful when the bladder or urethra is inflamed.
7. Loss of Appetite and Lethargy
If your cat is suddenly less interested in food or is acting lethargic, these could be signs that it is not feeling well due to a UTI. Fever or malaise, combined with other urinary symptoms, may indicate that an infection is present.
8. Vomiting (In Severe Cases)
Although less common, vomiting can sometimes accompany urinary tract infections in cats, particularly if the infection has spread or is severe. If your cat is vomiting along with urinary symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly.
How to Differentiate Between a UTI and Other Conditions
The symptoms of a UTI in cats can sometimes overlap with other urinary conditions, such as bladder stones, urinary tract blockages, or even feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). FLUTD is a general term used to describe a variety of conditions affecting the urinary tract, including inflammation and infections.
Here are a few conditions that share similar symptoms with UTIs:
- Bladder Stones: Stones in the bladder can cause symptoms such as frequent urination, straining, blood in the urine, and urinating outside the litter box. However, bladder stones usually cause more pain and are typically diagnosed through imaging, like X-rays or ultrasounds.
- Urinary Tract Blockage: Male cats, especially neutered ones, are at higher risk for urinary blockages, which can be life-threatening. This condition often involves straining to urinate, vocalizing in pain, and potentially complete inability to urinate. A blockage requires immediate emergency care, as it can lead to kidney damage or rupture of the bladder if left untreated.
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): FLUTD refers to a range of urinary issues, including infections, inflammation, and crystal formation in the urine. It may present with similar symptoms to a UTI, such as blood in the urine, frequent urination, and inappropriate urination.
Because many of these conditions share overlapping symptoms, it’s important to take your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis.
How to Diagnose a UTI in Cats
If you suspect your cat has a UTI, it’s essential to have a vet examine them as soon as possible. A proper diagnosis typically involves the following:
1. Physical Examination
Your vet will perform a thorough physical examination, checking for signs of discomfort, pain, or bloating in the abdominal area. They will also assess your cat’s overall condition, including hydration status and body temperature.
2. Urine Analysis
The most important diagnostic test for a UTI is a urine sample. Your vet will collect a urine sample from your cat to check for the presence of bacteria, blood, white blood cells, and crystals. The urine will also be tested for pH levels, which can indicate the presence of infection or bladder stones. Sometimes, the vet may need to obtain a sterile urine sample through a procedure called cystocentesis, where a needle is used to extract urine directly from the bladder.
3. Urine Culture
If bacteria are found in the urine, the vet may perform a urine culture to identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection. This helps determine which antibiotics will be most effective in treating the infection.
4. Blood Tests
In some cases, your vet may recommend blood tests to check for underlying health conditions that could predispose your cat to UTIs, such as kidney disease or diabetes.
5. X-rays or Ultrasound
If your cat’s symptoms are severe or if there is suspicion of bladder stones or other obstructions, the vet may recommend imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds to check for abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Treatment of UTIs in Cats
Once your cat has been diagnosed with a UTI, the vet will recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include the following:
1. Antibiotics
The most common treatment for a UTI is a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. It’s important to follow the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your vet, even if your cat appears to feel better before the medication is finished.
2. Pain Relief
If your cat is experiencing pain due to a UTI, the vet may prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs to help alleviate discomfort.
3. Dietary Changes
In some cases, the vet may recommend a special diet to support urinary health. Certain foods can help dissolve bladder crystals, prevent urinary tract infections, or promote the overall health of the urinary system.
4. Increased Water Intake
Encouraging your cat to drink more water can help flush out bacteria and prevent further urinary issues. You can try offering wet food, which has a higher moisture content, or provide a water fountain to make water more appealing.
When to Take Your Cat to the Vet
If you notice any of the symptoms of a UTI, such as frequent urination, straining, blood in the urine, or inappropriate urination, it’s essential to take your cat to the vet for an evaluation. Urinary tract infections can be treated successfully if caught early, but untreated infections can lead to serious complications, such as kidney infections or bladder ruptures.
If your cat is showing any of the following, seek veterinary care immediately:
- Inability to urinate
- Blood in the urine
- Vomiting or lethargy
- Severe pain or distress
Conclusion
A urinary tract infection in cats is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort if not addressed promptly. As a cat owner, it’s important to monitor your cat’s behavior and be aware of the signs of a UTI. If you notice any abnormal urination patterns, straining, or blood in the urine, contact your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right care, most cats recover fully from UTIs and can resume their normal, happy lives.
