As a veterinarian with years of experience treating furry friends, I have encountered numerous cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats. Feline urinary tract disease is not only common, but can also cause significant discomfort to our cats. So, how can you, as a dedicated cat parent, know if your furry friend is struggling with a urinary tract infection?
The key is to be vigilant in identifying the symptoms your cat might show if they have a urinary tract infection and to know when to seek prompt professional medical care. In this article, we will guide you through the signs to watch out for, when to seek veterinary help, and the steps to take in caring for a cat with a UTI. Let’s dive into the world of feline urinary health together.
Common Symptoms of a Cat Urinary tract infection
If you’re concerned that your cat might have a urinary tract infection (UTI), here are some common symptoms to watch for:
It’s important to note that certain cats, especially those with underlying conditions like diabetes mellitus, are more likely to develop urinary tract infections.
Other Possible Causes of UTI-Like Symptoms
Keep in mind that these symptoms are not exclusive to a UTI, and might also suggest conditions such as:
Since the symptoms listed above are not specific to urinary tract infections, tests must be carried out to properly confirm a feline UTI. After all, the treatment for a bladder infection is very different to bladder stones or kidney disease and so it’s important that a proper diagnosis is made.
How do you check a cat for a urinary tract infection?
If your vet suspects that your cat might have a UTI, they will start by performing a thorough physical examination. This includes:
- Feeling their abdomen for any tenderness or pain
- Examining their genital area closely, with particular attention given to the lower urinary tract, especially in male cats, due to their narrower urethra and higher risk of blockages.
- Observing their behavior for signs of discomfort or distress
After the physical exam, collecting a urine sample is essential. There are two methods that vet’s will typically use:
- Clean-catch urine sample: This involves catching a urine sample mid stream into a container. This can be challenging and also doesn’t provide a sterile sample.
- Catheterization: If necessary, a small tube (called a catheter) can be inserted into the cat’s urethra to collect urine directly from the bladder. Don’t worry, it’s a quick and safe procedure and has the benefits of providing a sterile urine sample, meaning that any tests performed are more reliable.
With the urine sample in hand, urinalysis can be performed to check for signs of infection. This involves examining the sample under and microscope and with urinary dip stick which tests for the presence of different substances within the urine, such as:
- Bacteria: Are there any harmful bacteria causing the infection?
- White blood cells: Is there an increased number of white blood cells in the urine, indicating an immune response?
- Blood: Is there any blood present in the urine? This could indicate inflammation of your cat’s bladder.
If the urinalysis results point to a UTI, I may perform a urine culture to:
- Identify the specific bacteria causing the infection: By growing the bacteria in a special dish, I can figure out which type it is. This helps me select the most effective medicine to treat the infection.
- A culture and sensitivity test helps to identify which antibiotics can effectively treat the bacterial infection.
Treating and Preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Cats
Treatment
A combination of treatments might be required for cats diagnosed with cat urinary tract infections, these include:
Prevention
To reduce the risk of your cat getting another UTI, I recommend the following steps:
Getting Help from Your Vet
If you suspect your cat has a UTI, take them to the vet right away. Untreated urinary tract issues can lead to severe outcomes, including kidney failure, so prompt veterinary care is essential. The sooner your cat receives treatment, the faster they’ll recover and the less likely they’ll experience complications.
Can I treat my cat’s UTI at my home?
No, you should not attempt to treat your cat’s UTI at home. Delaying the treatment of a UTI can lead to severe complications, such as kidney damage or sepsis. Cats with UTIs often require antibiotics, which must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
There are however some changes you can implement at home to help prevent feline urinary tract disease or to help them recover from an infection. See our full guide below for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dirty litter box cause UTI?
Yes, a dirty litter box can indeed contribute to the development of a UTI in cats. Here’s how:
- Bacteria from the dirty litter box can enter your cat’s urethra and cause an infection.
- Dirty litter boxes lead to urine retention and stress, weakening your cat’s immune system.
Do cats smell when they have a UTI?
Yes, cats with UTIs may have a strong ammonia odor in their urine. Normally, cat urine doesn’t have a strong smell. However, a UTI can cause changes in the urine, making it smell stronger and more like ammonia. This is because the infection can irritate the bladder and prevent the urine from being properly concentrated.
