Urinary tract infections are just one type of urinary tract problem that can affect cats. Infections cause a variety of symptoms that cat owners need to learn to recognize in order to get their cat the help it needs and prevent more serious problems from developing.
What are urinary tract infections in cats?
Urinary tract infections (UI) occur when bacteria enter the bladder, grow and reproduce. This results in an infection since urine is normally sterile inside the bladder. Cats don't get UTIs as often as other urinary problems, but that doesn't mean they never get them.
Signs of UTIs in Cats
- straining to urinate
- Crying or moaning during urination
- urinate blood
- Urinate outside the litter box
- Licking at the opening of the urinary tract
- Increased frequency of urination
Cats that have UTIs are likely to be uncomfortable when urinating. This discomfort or pain can sometimes cause them to cry or moan, and cause them to urinate when they are in the litter box. A cat with a UTI may also lick their genitals to try to ease their discomfort and try to urinate more often than usual. Some cats with a UTI also have blood in their urine, which can be seen in the litter box or on the floor where the cat was lying.
Finally, many cats with urinary problems, including urinary tract infections, will urinate outside of their litter box. This may mean urinating directly next to the litter box or in a place that is completely out of the ordinary. This is done in order to make its owner understand that something is wrong. But if a cat owner uses a special litter made with color-changing silica gel, they can be warned of a UTI even before unwanted symptoms like this develop.
Causes of UTIs in Cats
Bacteria cause UTIs when they enter a cat's bladder. In general, bacteria enter the bladder through the cat's urethra, which is the path that urine takes to exit the body. Once in the bladder, the bacteria grow and reproduce to create other bacteria and infiltrate this once sterile space. Simple things like a dirty litter box, a dirty bed, or an overall dirty environment a cat spends time in can allow bacteria to enter the urethra and cause a urinary tract infection.
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Diagnosing UTIs in Cats
If a cat owner observes symptoms of a UTI in their cat, they should schedule a visit to their cat's veterinarian. A urine sample will need to be collected either by the owner at home using special non-absorbent litter or by the veterinarian. The veterinarian may temporarily keep the cat in the animal hospital until it urinates on its own in non-absorbent litter or the urine is obtained by cystocentesis. Cystocentesis is a quick, non-invasive technique that obtains a urine sample using a needle and syringe. Some veterinarians prefer to obtain urine by cystocentesis, while others prefer to allow a cat to provide a sample the natural way.
Once the urine is obtained, a urinalysis will be performed. This type of test checks for bacteria, crystals, blood, parasites, abnormal pH levels, abnormal specific gravity, glucose, and other things in the urine to help the veterinarian make a diagnosis. If bacteria are present in the urine, a urinary tract infection is diagnosed. Sometimes a urine culture should also be done to see exactly what type of bacteria is present in the infection in order to choose a specific antibiotic.
Treatment of urinary tract infections in cats
Antibiotics will be prescribed to kill bacteria in the bladder and symptomatic treatment may also be needed to relieve a cat's symptoms. These are usually painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Probiotics may also be recommended to offset the negative effects of antibiotics.
How to Prevent UTIs in Cats
The best way to prevent UTIs in a cat is to ensure that the opening to the urinary tract is kept clean at all times. Regularly cleaning litter boxes and washing cat beds makes this task easier. Overweight cats may have trouble cleaning themselves and may need help keeping their urinary tract clean with a damp cloth or wipe. Adequate water intake will also help flush the bladder regularly.
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Other Types of Urinary Problems in Cats
UTIs aren't the only type of urinary tract problem in cats. Most often, cats develop inflammation or stones.
Urine crystals – Crystals can be problematic as they can turn into troublesome bladder stones. There are many types of urine crystals.
Bladder stones – There are several types of bladder stones (uroliths) and sometimes bacteria contribute to their formation. Small stones can cause obstruction and prevent a cat from urinating, which is life threatening.
Urinary Tract Inflammation – Also called cystitis, inflammation can be dangerous in cats.