If your cat suddenly starts avoiding the litter box, straining to urinate, or vocalizing in discomfort, it could be more than just a bad mood—it might be a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs in cats can cause pain, frustration, and even serious health complications if left unaddressed. Because felines are experts at masking illness, subtle changes in behavior could be the only clue that something is wrong. At VO Vets, our team can help you understand the symptoms of a cat UTI, so you can act quickly and get the veterinary care your pet needs. If you suspect your cat is experiencing a urinary issue, call VO Vets at one of our locations in Fort Worth or Trophy Club, TX, or book an appointment online today!
Common Cat UTI Symptoms
A urinary tract infection can cause noticeable behavioral and physical changes in your cat. While some symptoms may be mild, others can indicate a more serious underlying condition. Here are the most common cat UTI symptoms to watch for:
Frequent Urination
If your cat is making more trips to the litter box than usual, this could be an indication that their urinary system is irritated. Cats with UTIs often feel the constant urge to urinate, even if little to no urine is produced. This can lead to discomfort and frustration for both you and your feline friend.
Straining to Urinate
You may notice your cat spending more time in the litter box or assuming a urinating posture but failing to produce urine. This can be extremely uncomfortable and, in some cases, may indicate a blockage in the urinary tract, which requires immediate veterinary attention.
Blood in the Urine
Blood in the urine, or hematuria, is a red flag for a urinary tract infection or other urinary conditions. While blood may be visible as a red or pink discoloration in the litter box, sometimes it is only detectable through laboratory testing. If you see any sign of blood in your cat’s urine, contact VO Vets right away for a thorough evaluation.
Urinating Outside the Litter Box
Cats are naturally clean animals and typically use their litter boxes with consistency. If your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the box, this behavior change could indicate discomfort caused by a UTI. Urinating in unusual places, such as on furniture, carpets, or bedding, can signal distress and should not be ignored.
Vocalization and Signs of Discomfort
A cat experiencing a UTI may vocalize more than usual, especially while using the litter box. Crying, yowling, or whimpering when attempting to urinate is a clear indication of pain. In addition to vocalization, you may notice restlessness, excessive grooming of the genital area, or avoidance of the litter box due to the association of pain with urination.
Changes in Appetite and Energy Levels
While a UTI primarily affects the urinary system, it can also have an impact on your cat’s overall well-being. Cats suffering from urinary tract infections may show decreased appetite, lethargy, or signs of general discomfort. If your cat is eating less or seems unusually inactive, this could be a sign of an underlying health issue requiring veterinary attention.
What Might Cause A Cat UTI?
Urinary tract infections in cats can develop for a variety of reasons. Identifying the root cause can help prevent future occurrences and ensure your cat’s long-term health.
Bacterial Infections
Bacteria entering the urinary tract is one of the primary causes of UTIs in cats. This can occur due to poor hygiene, underlying health conditions, or anatomical factors that make some cats more susceptible to infection.
Urinary Stones and Crystals
Mineral deposits, also known as urinary stones or crystals, can form in the bladder or urinary tract. These formations can cause irritation, inflammation, and an increased risk of infection. Certain diets, dehydration, and genetics can contribute to the development of urinary stones in cats.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
FLUTD is a broad term that encompasses multiple urinary conditions, including infections, bladder inflammation, and blockages. Cats with FLUTD often experience recurrent UTIs and require long-term management to maintain urinary health.
Stress and Environmental Factors
Stress plays a significant role in feline health and can contribute to urinary issues. Changes in routine, new pets, or an unclean litter box may trigger urinary problems. Stress-related urinary conditions, such as feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), often mimic UTI symptoms but are not caused by bacterial infections.
What to Expect When Your Cat is Diagnosed with a UTI
If you notice cat UTI symptoms, seeking veterinary care is essential. Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your cat’s urinary issues and recommend appropriate treatment.
Urinalysis and Diagnostic Testing
A urinalysis is a key diagnostic tool used to identify UTIs. This test evaluates the presence of bacteria, blood, crystals, and other abnormalities in the urine. Additional diagnostic tests, such as urine cultures or imaging, may be performed to detect underlying conditions like bladder stones or inflammation.
Potential Treatment Options for Cat UTIs
Treatment for a UTI in cats depends on the underlying cause. If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics are commonly prescribed to eliminate the infection. For cases involving bladder stones or inflammation, dietary modifications, increased water intake, or additional medications may be recommended.
Importance of Follow-Up Care
After treatment, follow-up veterinary visits help ensure that the infection has cleared and that no other underlying conditions are affecting your cat’s urinary health. Preventive care, including regular check-ups and dietary management, can reduce the likelihood of recurrent UTIs.
Supporting Your Cat’s Urinary Health
Taking proactive steps to support your cat’s urinary health can help prevent future UTIs and improve their overall well-being.
- Encourage Hydration: Encourage your cat to drink more water by providing fresh, clean water daily, using a cat water fountain, or incorporating wet food into their diet.
- Maintain a Clean Litter Box: A clean litter box can reduce stress and promote healthy urinary habits. Scoop the litter box daily and provide multiple boxes in multi-cat households to encourage regular use.
- Provide a Balanced Diet: Feeding your cat a high-quality, well-balanced diet can help prevent urinary issues. Some veterinary diets are specifically formulated to support urinary health by reducing crystal formation and maintaining optimal pH levels in the urine.
Urinary tract infections in cats can be painful and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious complications. If you notice any cat UTI symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The expert team at VO Vets in Fort Worth and Trophy Club, TX, can help relieve your cat’s pain and get them on the road to recovery. Call one of our locations or book an appointment online today to ensure your cat gets the care they need!
