It seems like cats and urinary issues are like peanut butter and jelly, they go hand in hand. In fact, cats are subject to a complicated conglomeration of urinary woes known as FLUTD. So, while cats are no strangers to problems with their urinary bladder and otherwise, actual urinary tract infections (UTIs) are fairly uncommon but not out of the question. Let’s take a look at UTIs in cats so that you’ll have a better understanding of this irritating issue in order to recognize the early signs and get proper treatment.
What Are UTIs in Cats?
The term UTI is often used as a catch-all phrase for anything disrupting a cat’s urinary tract. But, in fact, the actual meaning is a bacterial infection that sets up shop in the urinary bladder. You see, in good times, the bladder and the urine inside are sterile. There is no normal bacterial growth. But since the bladder is open to the outside world by way of a tube called the urethra, there is the possibility for bacteria to get in there, using the urethra to fast track them to a bacterial paradise.
If the body’s natural defenses don’t keep their reproduction in check and clear the bacteria from the system, a UTI can fully bloom.
What are the Signs of UTIs in Cats?
Bacteria are abnormal and unwelcome visitors to the urinary bladder. It doesn’t like them being there, so in response, the lining of the bladder tends to become very inflamed and irritated. This irritation can lead to discomfort along with some other signs including:
- Frequent urination
- Urinating small amounts
- Straining to urinate
- Crying when urinating
- Frequent licking of genital area
- Urinating outside the litter box[
- Bloody or foul-smelling urine
Kitties may also choose to hide more or become clingier as a way of getting your attention. Some may even eat less and become lethargic.
These signs may seem all too definitive, but here’s the problem: cats may show these same signs with other urinary issues that aren’t caused by an infection. This is where your veterinarian comes in. It’s up to them to diagnose a UTI in your cat using an exam, urinalysis, and possibly even an x-ray. These tests will look for white blood cells and bacteria in the urine, while the x-ray will check for bladder stones that may be adding to the irritation. If a UTI is diagnosed, a urine culture and sensitivity may be done to determine which particular bacteria are making their living in the bladder. This allows for a more tailored treatment that often leads to better results.
How are UTIs in Cats Treated?
Since the culprit behind a UTI in cats is bacteria, antibiotics are often prescribed. As a first line of defense, most vets will dispense a broad-spectrum medication that is likely to take care of the usual suspects. However, a urinary culture and sensitivity may reveal that a different antibiotic will have better efficacy and that change will be made.
As you can imagine, or may have first-hand experience with, UTIs are uncomfortable, to say the least. So, besides antibiotics, your vet may also prescribe pain medications to help ease your kitty’s signs. A change in food may be in order as well because some diets can alter the urinary environment to make it less enticing for bacteria to grow and for urinary stones to develop. Dietary changes are almost certain for cats that are repeat offenders or that are suffering from other urinary issues as well.
Depending on other signs, UTIs in cats may also require some supportive measures, such as fluids to combat dehydration or canned food to bring out a cat’s appetite.
Can UTIs in Cats be Prevented?
Unfortunately, there’s no surefire way to protect your kitty from UTIs, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try. With bacteria making up a large part of the UTI equation, decreasing the amount of these nasty buggers that your cat comes in contact with may help. Now, before you start disinfecting your cat’s world, be aware that bacteria are everywhere and a normal part of a healthy environment. Some bacteria are even beneficial to your cat’s health when kept in a perfect balance.
What you don’t want is an overabundance of bacteria, especially around your cat’s genitals. You can cut down on bacteria by keeping your cat’s litter box clean. This means scooping frequently, completely changing the litter once a week if you scoop, and washing the litter box with soap and water while it's empty. If you’re looking for a way to streamline the cleaning process, extend the life of your litter and make it easy to clean your litter box with soap and water, the SiftEase Litter Box Cleaner is here for you. SiftEase makes it quick and easy to remove waste from your cat’s litter box to not only cut down on the smell but the amount of bacteria as well. And with the use of SiftEase, you can greatly extend the life of your litter and completely empty the litter box to make it easy to clean!
Along with a clean litter box, your cat’s personal hygiene may also come into play. Cats with long-hair, extra weight, or pain from injuries or arthritis can have difficulty keeping their backside clean. You can help the process by getting them a sanitary trim, maintaining a healthy weight, and treating any pain causing conditions to allow them to better groom themselves.
Overall health plays a role in UTIs in cats as well. Kitties with certain illnesses, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism, may be more prone to developing UTIs. Properly managing these diseases is the best step in preventing the unwanted side effects and potential consequences.
Finally, keep in mind that you simply can’t prevent UTIs in cats in every case. Female kitties, due to their wider urethras, and older cats may have more trouble with their urinary tract than others. Ensure your feline friend is keeping regular contact with your veterinarian to keep them as healthy as possible.
Final Thoughts
Urinary tract issues are a common malady for cats, however actual UTIs are the cause of very few cases. That being said, UTIs in cats aren’t something you want to write off completely. Monitor your cat’s litter box for signs of bloody urine, numerous small clumps, or peeing elsewhere. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your cat’s litter box habits or behaviors, contact your veterinarian.
