Urinary Tract Infections in Cats

There are a number of other urinary tract conditions that can affect cats, particularly cats that are older or male. Here, our Mechanicsburg vets explain more about urinary tract infections and other urinary conditions in cats.

Cat Urinary Tract Infection

Although urinary tract issues are often seen in cats, the culprit is more likely to be feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) than a true urinary tract infection.

That said, when cats do develop urinary tract infections (a UTI) it is often the result of an endocrine disease such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes. It is also the case that cats who suffer from UTIs are typically 10 years of age or older.

The most common symptoms of urinary tract infections in cats are straining to urinate, drinking less urine, not urinating at all, urinating in pain or discomfort, passing blood-tinged urine, and urinating outside of the litter box.

If your cat is showing any of the symptoms listed above it could indicate that they are suffering from UTI or FLUTD. Either way, it is important that you seek veterinary care for your feline friend. 

Feline Urinary Tract Disease - FLUTD

FLUTD, or feline lower urinary tract disease, is a catch-all term for a variety of clinical symptoms. FLUTD can wreak havoc on your cat's urethra and bladder, frequently obstructing the urethra or preventing your cat's bladder from emptying properly. If left untreated, these conditions can become serious, even fatal.

Urinating can be difficult, painful, or impossible for cats suffering from FLUTD. They may also urinate more frequently, or in inappropriate areas outside their litter box (occasionally on surfaces that are cool to the touch such as a tile floor or bathtub).

Causes of Feline Urinary Tract Disease

FLUTD is a complex condition to diagnose and treat since there are multiple causes and contributing factors to this disease. Crystals, stones, or debris can gradually build up in your cat's urethra - the tube connecting the bladder to the outside of your cat’s body - or bladder.

Some other common causes of lower urinary tract issues in cats include:

• Incontinence due to excessive water consumption or weak bladder
• Spinal cord issues
• Urethral plug caused by the accumulation of debris from urine
• Bladder infection, inflammation, urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Injury or tumor in the urinary tract
• Congenital abnormalities
• Emotional or environmental stressors

Urinary tract disease in cats is most commonly diagnosed in overweight, middle-aged cats who have little to no access to the outdoors, eat a dry food diet, or are insufficiently active. FLUTD can affect cats of any age. Male cats are also more prone to urinary diseases due to a narrower urethra that is more likely to become blocked.

If your kitty is diagnosed with FLUTD it is essential to determine the underlying cause. FLUTD symptoms can be caused by a range of serious underlying health issues from bladder stones or infection to cancer or a blockage.

If your vet is unable to determine the cause of your cat's FLUTD, your kitty may be diagnosed with a urinary tract infection called cystitis which is inflammation of the bladder. If this is the case, your vet will prescribe your cat an antibiotic to help fight off the UTI. 

Symptoms of Feline Urinary Tract Disease in Cats

If your cat has FLUTD or a cat urinary tract infection you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

It’s critical that any bladder or urinary issue be treated as early as possible. Allowing the condition to go untreated could lead to a completely blocked urethra. This is an emergency situation as your cat will not be able to pee at all and could experience kidney failure or a ruptured bladder. FLUTD can quickly be fatal if there is an obstruction that is not eliminated immediately.

Diagnosis of Feline Urinary Tract Disease

Cats with urinary tract infections, as well as cats with FLUTD, require veterinary care. If your cat exhibits any of the symptoms listed above, it's time to take him to the vet. If your cat is straining to urinate or crying out in pain, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet as soon as possible; your cat may be suffering from a veterinary emergency.

Your vet will perform a complete physical exam to help assess your cat's symptoms and perform a urinalysis to get further insight into your kitty's condition. They may also do additional diagnostic testing, such as an X-ray or bloodwork to help them diagnose your cat's condition. 

Cat Urinary Tract Infection Recovery

Urinary problems in cats can be complicated and serious, so the first step should be to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian for immediate treatment. The underlying cause of your cat's urinary symptoms will determine the treatment, but it may include:

• Increasing your kitty's water consumption
• Antibiotics or medication to relieve symptoms
• Modified diet
• Expelling of small stones through the urethra
• Urinary acidifiers
• Fluid therapy
• Urinary catheter or surgery for male cats to remove urethral blocks

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.