Your cat's urinary tract system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Urine is produced by the kidneys, and it travels to the bladder via the ureter--the bladder is simply a holding tank for urine. From the bladder, urine exits the body via the urethra. Congenital and infectious conditions can affect the bladder and cause urinary dysfunction or bladder disease in your cat.
-
Urachal Remnants
-
In utero, a tube connects the bladder to the umbilical cord. After birth, this tube should close and become a solid cord. If it doesn't, part of the tube stays open and causes incontinence and urinary tract infections. It is diagnosed with X-rays and treated surgically.
Bacterial Cystitis
-
When the bladder becomes inflamed and infected with bacteria, the condition is known as bacterial cystitis. It is more common in older cats or those with compromised immune systems. Diabetic or thyroid deficient cats are also at risk. Symptoms of cystitis include frequent urination, painful urination and inappropriate urination outside of the litter box. There may be blood in the urine. Your veterinarian will acquire a urine sample and perform a urinalysis and bacterial culture. If infection is present, antibiotics will be prescribed.
Bladder Stones
-
Urinary stones or crystals--also known as uroliths or calculi--form in the urine and irritate the bladder and urinary tract. This condition is often treated with a special prescription diet that helps to dissolve the stones. Urinary stones can develop into a serious condition, blocking the passage of urine and creating a toxic and potentially fatal build of urine. Male cats have a longer, narrower urethra; therefore, this condition is more dangerous in male cats. If your cat is showing any typical urinary infections signs--straining or inappropriate urination--combined with signs of severe pain, contact your veterinarian at once.
Bladder Cancer
-
Fortunately, bladder cancer is not common in cats, but it can occur. Female cats are more at risk. Symptoms mimic other, more common bladder disorders. Surgical treatment and chemotherapy are the usual treatment modalities.
Bladder Worms
-
There is a parasitic worm that can infect house cats, but it is not common. The worm---Capillaria plica---is more common in wild cats, but domestic cats can become infected if they eat larvae-carrying earthworms. This rare condition is treated with anti-parasitic drugs.
Trauma or Neurological Problems
-
Trauma to the abdominal area can cause bladder injury, as can spinal injury or brain. If your cat has fallen or been hit by a car, your veterinarian will scan for internal injuries. Damage to the bladder or urinary tract, spine or brain can cause incontinence, blockages or difficulty urinating.
-