If you have had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a urinary tract problem, you are familiar with the pain and discomfort they bring. These issues are just as serious for cats, who can suffer from urinary tract infections and other urinary tract disorders for a variety of reasons.
Despite the multitude of potential causes of urinary tract disease, the signs are generally quite similar. Cats will often urinate in small amounts more frequently, sometimes straining in the litter box for a prolonged period of time. Urine accidents outside the box may occur, and blood may be seen in the urine. Cats may lick their genital areas and show signs of depression, decreased appetite, and changes in water consumption.
Common Urinary Tract Problems in Cats
Problems with the urinary tract have been shown to affect as many as 30% of all domestic cats at some point in their lives. These problems can include bladder stones, urinary blockage, urinary tract infections, and cystitis.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is often caused by the formation of struvite or calcium oxalate stones in the urine, which can then cause a blockage of the bladder. Surgical excision of the stones is generally required to cure the blockage and return the bladder to its original state. In less severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe a special diet formulated to dissolve the stones. Long-term, foods that decrease the formation of stones may be recommended to prevent further recurrence of bladder stones.
A urethral obstruction occurs when the cat’s urethra becomes blocked. This is more common in male cats and can be life-threatening, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Tiny stones or mineral crystals from the bladder may migrate into the urethra, getting stuck as they pass through the long and narrow organ. Like cats with other urinary tract problems, cats with a partial or total obstruction will strain to urinate without producing much urine. However, as the obstruction continues, the cat will rapidly become more distressed, unable to empty their distended bladder. Additionally, the toxins removed from the blood by the kidneys will be unable to be voided through the urine, leading to a progressive imbalance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. If left untreated, death can occur within 24-48 hours of a cat becoming fully obstructed.
Treatment of a urinary obstruction aims at relieving the blockage. The cat may be heavily sedated or anesthetized, and a urinary catheter may be passed through the urethra. In many cases, this can dislodge the blockage and restore the flow of urine. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve the blockage and clear the urinary tract of any other stones and crystals that might cause the problem to reoccur. Intravenous fluid therapy may be administered for several days to help treat dehydration, normalize electrolyte levels, and support kidney function. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat any infection present.
Urinary tract infections in cats may be a primary problem or occur secondary to other issues such as stones or crystals in the bladder. The presence of these foreign materials in the bladder irritates the bladder wall, causing inflammation and often leading to an infection. Left untreated, urinary tract infections can spread to the kidneys and potentially become a life-threatening condition.
If you suspect your cat has a urinary tract disorder, the most important step is to consult your veterinarian. The first step in diagnosis is a urinalysis, which involves collecting a sample of urine. If infection is suspected, your vet may perform a cystocentesis to obtain a sterile urine sample by inserting a needle directly into your cat’s bladder. A urinalysis tests the acidity of the urine, its specific gravity (which indicates kidney function), and checks for the presence of blood, protein, glucose, and other substances. The test may also reveal abnormal cells, bacteria, or crystals.
If bacteria or blood is found in the urine, your vet may perform a culture and sensitivity test. This laboratory test identifies the bacteria or yeast present and determines which antibiotic will be most effective in treating the infection. A culture and sensitivity test is the best way to diagnose and treat a urinary tract infection, ensuring the correct medication is prescribed for your cat’s condition.
The variety of problems that can affect a cat’s urinary tract are diverse, and each requires careful, individualized treatment. If you suspect a urinary tract infection or another urinary tract problem in your cat, prompt veterinary attention is crucial to ensure your cat receives the appropriate treatment as quickly as possible.
