Urinary tract infections can become extremely painful for affected felines. Fortunately, the symptoms of a urinary tract infection are relatively easy to spot and the infection can be treated relatively easily.
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Who is Affected?
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Cats of any gender or breed can be affected by a urinary tract infection. However, according to VetInfo.com, male cats are more prone to developing UTIs than their female counterparts.
Causes
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Feline urinary tract infections are commonly caused by bacteria or viral infections. However, a UTI can also be caused by bladder stones, tumors, injury, trauma, stress, dehydration and certain foods.
Symptoms
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Some of the most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection include frequent urination, blood in the urine and a refusal to urinate in the litter box. There may also be cries of pain when grooming the genitals or during urination.
Diagnosis
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A physical exam will be performed by the veterinarian to check for a full bladder and take a sample. A urinalysis will be done to check for red and white blood cells, bacteria and crystals.
Treatment
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The results of the urine test will determine treatment options for the cat. For example, if crystals are present, then a diet change may be necessary to reduce the offending minerals causing the crystals. If a bacteria is causing the infection, antibiotics will be prescribed.
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