Kidney Stone Symptoms in Cats

Some cats develop crystals in their urine, as mineral particles build up over time. These may further develop into kidney stones. You can learn to recognize kidney stone symptoms and help your cat, which can be very important. If kidney stones are not removed, they may block the ureters, the small, tube-like ducts connecting the kidneys to the bladder. If urine cannot make its way through the ureters, serious kidney damage can occur and the cat may die.

  1. Behavior Changes

    • If you suspect that your cat may have kidney stones, watch closely for odd changes of behavior. The Cat Health Guide mentions that a sick cat may begin urinating in a strange place rather than in its litter box. If you haven't changed brands of cat litter, introduced a new pet, moved or given your cat any reasons for extra stress, urinating outside the box may indicate a serious problem. Make sure your cat's boxes are clean, and if the behavior persists, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

      Catching kidney stones early can prevent more serious complications, such as a complete blockage.

      Other behavioral signs to watch for include excessive licking of the genital area, drinking more water than usual, lethargy, depression and appetite loss.

    Physical Symptoms

    • Pay attention to how frequently your cat uses the litter box. If your cat keeps returning to the box to urinate but only passes small amounts of urine, he may be sick. If he strains or meows in pain while urinating, take him to a veterinarian immediately. Straining without producing urine indicates that a cat needs emergency care. If possible, check your cat's urine. The presence of blood indicates a serious problem. A cat with kidney stones may also vomit or display signs of abdominal pain, according to The Cat Health Guide.

    Lack of Symptoms

    • Some cats may develop kidney stones but show no signs they have a problem. Because a veterinarian can discover stones by feeling a cat's abdomen during an exam, it's important to schedule regular checkups for your pet. By doing so, you can prevent a potentially deadly blockage from occurring, and keep your cat healthy and happy.