Symptoms & Causes of Urinary Tract Problems in cats

Cats are susceptible to problems of the lower urinary tract. This includes the bladder and urethra. Urine is formed and stored in the bladder until it flows out of your cat’s body through the urethra.  If they are inflamed or obstructed your cat will not be able to urinate properly.

Some 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.

Cats with a blocked bladder are often confused with the signs of constipation.  A cat that is showing signs of straining and discomfort should be vet checked as soon as possible.