Feline Bladder Infection Symptoms

Changes in Urination Habits

• Because cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, you may notice your furry friend straining to urinate but producing just a few drops or none at all. As the infection causes inflammation, the affected areas will become narrower. Straining is of particular concern in male cats because of the possibility of a blockage forming in the urethra.

  Most cats are litter-trained early in their lives, however, illness can cause stress, which can lead to urinating in different places or crying before entering their litter box. Any changes in a cat's litter-box habits should be observed closely because they can be indicative of health issues.

Changes in Appearance of Urine

• Urine that is produced may contain a fine, gritty substance. It is this crystalline that most often causes cat bladder infections and is sometime referred to as "urinary sand." It is a result of mineral crystals being eliminated with the urine.

  The color of your cat's urine might indicate a possible infection as well. A properly hydrated, healthy feline's urine should be light in color or have no color at all, while a cat with a bladder infection might have very dark or cloudy urine.

  You also might notice blood in the urine; this is one if the definite signs that your cat is sick. There may be a pinkish color to the urine or small red clots. Puss may be present as well. If you do notice this, your cat may have a urinary tract infection. If you see a lot of blood in your cat's urine, especially if it is mixed with puss, it is important to call your vet as soon as possible.

General Signs of Illness

• These symptoms of cystitis in cats can make your pet uncomfortable or even put it excruciating pain. You might notice an incessant licking of the genitals, or your pet may react in pain when you touch or apply pressure to his lower abdomen.

  Other signs of illness can include lethargy, changes in eating and drinking habits and a dull coat that your cat does not seem to be grooming as often. Also, as is the case when a human is fighting an infection, it is possible that your cat will develop a fever. If your pet's measures anything above 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit, it indicates that there is a threat to the immune system and you should take your cat to the vet; 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is a normal temperature range for felines.

  You know your pet, and you will know if you have a sick cat. There is no one way for a pet owner to definitively diagnose or treat a case of cystitis. It is important to observe your cat closely and book a visit with your veterinarian as soon as you notice symptoms of any possible illness.