Causes of UTI Infections in Cats

Cats commonly suffer from lower urinary tract infections, including in the bladder and the urethra. Cats with urinary tract problems show similar signs, but the degree of the symptoms can vary. Some cats may seem to have only minor problems, while others urinate inappropriately, spend a lot of time grooming the area, and strain in the litter box. Learning about the symptoms and causes of UTI in cats can help you catch the infection early and keep your cat happier.

  1. Urinary Stones

    • Also called uroliths, bladder and other urinary stones can form inside your cat's body. They are usually made up of either magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) or calcium oxylate, and can be caused by the cat's diet. Better diets can reduced the number of struvite stones in cats, but not calcium oxylate stones. Stones may cause symptoms similar to that of a UTI on their own, or they may irritate the urethra and bladder, creating a chance for infections.

    Urethral Plugs

    • Cats may also develop a type of urethral obstruction, called a urethral plug. This is composed of dead cells, mineral buildup, protein, bacteria, and other substances. Just like urinary stones, they happen more often in cats with diets high in magnesium, and can irritate the urethra, allowing bacteria to create an infection. Dehydrated cats and cats that are fed one large meal or allowed to free feed are more likely to get a urethral blockage.

    Idiopathic Cystitis

    • Not all cats have a clear cause for their urinary troubles. In fact, according to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, about half of cats with a UTI have an undetermined cause. This is referred to as idiopathic cystitis, and parallels a human condition. Humans and cats with idiopathic cystitis often have problems immediately after a stressful event. If you've recently moved, or the weather is changing, keep an eye on your cat.