Inappropriate urination, blood in the urine, frequent urination, and inappropriate licking of the genitals are just a few of the many symptoms of a cat urinary tract infection. These symptoms can also be seen in other cats, including cats that are elderly or diabetic. You can also see signs in your cat if it has recently had an injury or abnormality.
Inappropriate urination
Cats can experience UTIs, too. Although the condition is uncommon, it should be treated as soon as possible to avoid potential discomfort and complications. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to a kidney infection, or even acute kidney injury. Cats with chronic kidney failure, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism are especially vulnerable to urinary tract infections. Other signs of a UTI in your cat include increased thirst, decreased appetite, and weight loss. In extreme cases, your cat may develop muscle wasting.
Blood in the urine
Your cat may have blood in the urine. This symptom is known as hematuria, and can be caused by several conditions. It can be scary for both you and your cat. But, luckily, most cases of blood in the urine in cats can be treated successfully, and the sooner you treat the problem, the better. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of cat hematuria, and what to do if you notice them in your cat.
Difficult or frequent urination
Your cat may have urinary tract problems if they are having a hard time urinating or urinates in inconvenient locations. They may also cry more often or urinate less frequently than usual. Your cat might also show signs of discomfort or house-soiling, which are signs of a urinary tract infection. Fortunately, these problems are not as common as you may think.
Inappropriate licking of genitals
Inflammation of the private parts of a cat can be caused by a variety of causes, including vaginitis or vulvitis. A bacterial infection is often to blame, but it can also result from a foreign body, congenital malformation, or a tumor. Either way, your cat may lick at the inflamed area to relieve the itching.
Diabetes mellitus
The first step in determining if your cat has diabetes is to diagnose it. If the condition isn’t detected in its early stages, you should visit your veterinarian. Luckily, diabetes in cats can be managed with the help of diet and insulin tablets. However, if it’s discovered later, the best way to treat it is with insulin shots. While the pain associated with insulin injections and blood glucose monitoring can be painful, these drugs can also have side effects.
Obesity
The symptoms of a feline UTI can range from frequent urination to spraying and total cessation of urination. Blood in the urine is also a symptom of a constricted urethra. Obesity in cats is also common, and a veterinarian should be consulted if the urine is red. Typical treatments for feline UTIs include an antibiotic course and a urine culture.
Bladder stones
While most felines don’t experience thirst, urinary tract infections can cause your pet to develop stones. These are the result of minerals clumping together in the urinary tract. While cats are predisposed to the development of stones due to their acidic urine, other factors can also contribute to the formation of bladder stones. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate a cat uti.