Cat Urinary Tract Infections

 

Cat Urinary Tract Infections

If your cat urinates frequently or has difficulty urinating, it may have a urinary tract infection. Other common signs of  cat urinary problems include changes in the size of the litter box (such as many of the small litter boxes) and accidents outside the litter box. 

 Urinary tract disorders are relatively common in both male and female cats, but can be unpleasant and painful for diagnosed cats and cause other health problems if left untreated. There is a possibility. 

 Interestingly, male cats have a slightly different urinary tract disease than female cats. In this article, we'll look at how this affects treatment and prevention approaches. Knowing the possible causes, various symptoms, available treatment options, and ways to prevent cat urine problems can help keep your cat healthy and save you from  unexpected veterinary claims.

What is a Cat Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infection, or UTI. The word "infection" in the statement suggests that microorganisms are to blame for the issue. Since neither animals nor humans are sterile, it is possible for bacteria on the outside of our bodies to enter the bladder through the urethra and cause an infection. The most frequent reason for urinary tract illness in female cats is this.

Cat Urinary Tract Illness (FLUTD)

It's interesting to note that many male cats might experience sterile urine sickness, which means it isn't at all caused by a bacterial infection. These cats' urethras expand as a result of inflammation, which results in painful urethral spasms and an ongoing urge to urinate. Veterinarians refer to this condition in male cats as FLUTD, or feline lower urinary tract disease.

Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms in Cats

One of the characteristic signs of cat urinary disease is increased pollakiuria. The amount of urine excreted is also usually very small. It may appear in the toilet as a small lump of urine. Or, if urine is improperly urinated outside the toilet, you will find that it is less than normal. 

 Often the urine is pink, indicating the presence of blood. You may also notice a strong or unpleasant odor of urine. 

 Pain may be the cause of crying or urinating. Painful tension when urinating without urinating is always an emergency.

Causes of Feline Urinary Tract Infections

Bacteria are always the real cause of an illness in a cat with a true UTI. Due to the greater size and shorter length of female cats' urethras in comparison to male cats, female cats are more susceptible to developing a bacterial urinary tract infection.

In both male and female cats, obesity can make bacterial urinary tract infections worse because overweight cats find it more difficult to brush themselves. Losing weight can help stop this from happening again.

Bladder stones may serve as an entry point for recurrent infections. To rule out the presence of bladder stones, imaging with radiographs or ultrasounds is required, and removal of the stones with surgery or occasionally with a diet change is suggested.

In male cats with FLUTD, stress is often suspected as the root cause. Changes in daily life, moving, adding new pets  and families, and dietary changes are all common causes of stress that can lead to cat urinary problems.

Treatment Options for Urinary Tract Infection in Cats

Naturally, the underlying cause of a cat urinary tract infection determines how you treat it. Antibiotics must be given to cats who have known bacterial illnesses. In order to relieve the discomfort of the strained muscles and inflammation, a veterinarian frequently recommends painkillers in addition to antibiotics.

Medication to relax the urethra and painkillers are frequently provided for cats with FLUTD. On rare occasions, they could be given an anxiety drug to relieve underlying stress.

Tips for Preventing Urinary Tract Infections in Cats

By reducing stress and adjusting the pH of the urine to prevent crystals, feline urinary diets can aid in the prevention of urinary tract disease. Ingredients in these diets frequently tempt cats to drink more water, which thins their pee. This can aid in preventing the growth of crystals and fostering the health of the urinary system.

In some cases, switching to a diet of canned foods will be beneficial. The higher moisture level of canned food keeps cats more hydrated, which may benefit their urinary health.

As they'll be more mobile and able to groom themselves more efficiently, cats who are overweight will be better able to keep themselves clean and avoid recurrent bacterial illnesses.

Other Cat Urinary Tract Issues that Might Present as a UTI

Other ailments, including as a UTI or FLUTD, can show symptoms like improper peeing outside of the litter box or changes in urine voiding habits. Consider purchasing insurance as a way to help cover the cost of veterinary care. A trip to the veterinarian's office is required to rule out illnesses like cat diabetes, urinary stones, or even renal ailments that may present similarly. To be more thorough, Pets Best also provides an optional exam price coverage.