Table of Contents
Urinary tracts in cats
Signs & symptoms of urinary issues in cats
How to prevent urinary issues in cats
How to treat urinary issues in cats
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Urinary Issues in Cats
- By Ellie
-
- June 13, 2024
- 2 MIN READ
The most common urinary issue in cats is feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).
Urinary infections don’t pick and choose, they affect all cats regardless of age and gender.* So as something that is likely to bother your feline, be on it when it comes knowing the signs and symptoms!
Let's start with a little bit of context. What is Feline lower urinary tract disease? It is in fact an umbrella term often used to describe problems affecting the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra) of cats. This could be something along the lines of a urinary obstruction or infection.
Urinary tracts in cats
A cat's urinary tract is a delicate system comprising the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. This system helps to filter waste from the bloodstream and maintain your fluffy friend’s body fluid balance. When all is well, cats can strut around with confidence, knowing their internal plumbing is in tip-top shape.
However, when issues come about, it's a different story altogether. Urinary problems in cats can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions like urinary obstruction. That's why keeping an eye on your kitty’s bathroom habits is super important (even if you do look a little like a stalker)!
Signs & symptoms of urinary issues in cats
So, how do you know if your furball is upset down there? Keep an eye out for these signs:
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Peeing outside of the litter box - If your cat is peeing excessively and outside of their litter box, there’s probably something going on.
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Straining to pee - A cat spending an eternity in the litter box or looking uncomfortable while urinating, is a red flag.
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Frequent trips to the loo - Just like us when we've had too many fluids, cats with urinary issues may make more frequent visits to the litter box.
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Blood in their urine - Any blood or redness to your cat’s pee is never a good sign and warrants a trip to the vet pronto.
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Excessive licking - Cats are notorious groomers, but if you notice your furry friend obsessively licking their downstairs region, it could indicate discomfort or irritation.
Spotting these signs early can make all the difference in your cat's health and happiness - if you are concerned, chat to our handy team of experts who can advise you on whether to see a vet.
How to prevent urinary issues in cats
Prevention is always better than cure, so here are a few tips to keep your cat's urinary tract in good shape:
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Hydration station
Ensure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. A well-hydrated kitty is less likely to develop urinary issues.
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Put the right stuff in their belly
Prevent urinary issues with specialist food and treats, like the Itch Urinary Treats for Cats.
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Keep it clean
Scoop that litter box regularly! A clean bathroom environment reduces the risk of urinary tract infections.
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Regular vet check-ups
Don't skip those annual vet visits. Regular check-ups allow your vet to catch any potential issues early on.
By incorporating these habits into your kitty care routine, you can help reduce the likelihood of urinary troubles down the line.
How to treat urinary issues in cats
Despite our best efforts, urinary issues can still find their way to infecting your furball. If you suspect your cat is suffering from urinary problems, go straight to your vet (quicker you see someone, quicker they will bounce back!). Treatment with a vet will probably include one or more of the below:
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Diagnostic tests: Performing various tests like a urinalysis and imaging, to pinpoint the underlying cause of your cat's upset.
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Medication: Depending on the diagnosis, medication might be required to help with the symptoms or combat infections.
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Dietary changes: Your vet may recommend switching to a special diet tailored to support urinary health.
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Fluid therapy: In severe cases, particularly with urinary obstruction, fluid therapy might be required to flush out toxins and restore electrolyte balance.
Remember, every cat is unique, so treatment plans will vary depending on the individual circumstances. Try to stay vigilant, even if it does mean your cat getting a little sick of you. When it comes to their downstairs region, we’d always recommend seeing your vet if you are concerned as urinary issues can escalate quickly!
Shop our full pet wellness range at Itchpet.com 🐾
Where we got the facts from:
*Animal Trust CIC, Source: https://www.animaltrust.org.uk/home
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