Cat UTI Symptoms

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats are common, and once you are familiar with the signs, they are easy to recognize. Urinary tract infections begin when bacteria -- usually E. coli -- builds up in the bladder. The bacteria replicate quickly inside the bladder and then spread to the rest of the urinary tract. If left untreated, a bladder or urinary tract infection can spread to the kidneys and cause pyelonephritis, a condition that leads to kidney impairment or sepsis, a bacterial infection of the blood.

  1. Inappropriate Urination

    • Urinating outside the litter box, often on smooth surfaces such as bathtubs and tile floors, is the most common sign that your cat may have a bladder infection. Look carefully at the urine and you will frequently notice streaks of blood. If the urine is fresh and has been left on an uncontaminated surface, you may be able to sample it for a veterinary urine test.

    Straining and Pain

    • Cats with UTIs may strain or demonstrate pain while urinating. If your cat cries when urinating, passes very little urine and returns to the litter box repeatedly, be concerned. This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or a more serious condition called a urethral obstruction. This potentially deadly condition prevents your cat from passing any urine. Because of their longer, narrower urethra, obstruction mainly affects male cats. Cats who are experiencing a blockage show signs of pain and straining and become increasingly distressed. Contact your veterinarian if you suspect a blockage.

    Blood in Urine

    • Hematuriais (blood in the urine) is hard to spot in the litter box, but a UTI will often add streaks of blood to your cat's urine. If you suspect your cat is suffering from a UTI, you can replace your regular litter with special, non-absorbent cat litter or aquarium gravel. Both are available in pet supply stores. These materials will not react with your cat's urine, so you can examine the liquid or, if needed, take a sample to your veterinarian for a urine test.

    Incontinence Urine Smells

    • A UTI can result in temporary incontinence and cause your cat to produce unusually foul-smelling urine. Combined, these symptoms may give your cat a potent urine odor. She may also lick and groom her genital area more frequently than normal to reduce the irritation caused by leaking urine.

    Prevention

    • As always, provide unlimited fresh water for your cat. Hydration is an important aid in preventing urinary tract infections. To further increase the amount of fluids your cat consumes, switch to a canned food diet and add water or unsalted broth to his rations. Encourage regular urination by providing clean, easily accessible litter boxes in stress-free locations.