Symptoms & Causes of Urinary Tract Problems in cats

Cats may struggle to urinate if there’s a physical issue within the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Cats with a blocked bladder are often confused with the signs of constipation.  It is best to see a vet as soon as possible if there are any signs of straining and discomfort with your cat toileting.

In general, the most common symptoms of of urinary tract problems can include:

• Frequent urination, but only passing a small amount of urine
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Blood in the urine
• Straining to urinate
• Crying out in pain while urinating
• Increased licking of urinary opening

What Causes Lower Urinary Tract Problems in Cats?

There are a few types of urinary tract problems in cats, including the following.

1. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis – Occasionally, the inside of a cat’s lower urinary tract will get irritated without an infection or stones being present. Sometimes it can be a symptom of stress or a reaction to a change in diet. In many cases the cause is unknown.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – Cats get UTIs when there is a bacterial infection in their bladder or urethra. Other diseases like diabetes and kidney disease can make infection more likely.
3. Uroliths (Urinary Stones) – Urine naturally contains minerals that can clump up and form tiny crystals, and even large stones, in your cat’s bladder. They can irritate the lining of the bladder or urethra and cause both bloody urine and pain while urinating.

The production of crystals (like pieces of sand) in the urine can combine with mucus and form a “plug” blocking the urethra. The bladder cannot empty and is obstructed rapidly becoming very painful.

An obstruction of the urethra is a medical emergency and you should call your vet right away.