Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infections In Cats
Most cats with urinary tract infections will make frequent trips to the litter box and seem restless. They may go into the box and strain to pee but produce either a small amount of urine or no urine at all. Occasionally, their urine may appear bloody.
Some cats will avoid the litter box because they have associated it with the discomfort caused by the UTI. Instead, they may urinate in other places in your home. Sinks, bathtubs, and clean laundry are popular spots. Your cat also may vomit and seem lethargic as the problem progressesespecially male cats.
In most cases, acute and chronic urinary tract infections will cause very similar symptoms. However, some cats with the chronic form show no signs of disease.
There Are Ways To Help Your Cat
Having gone through the agony of knowing that my cat was struggling to urinate, I know that you dont want to sit on your hands when your cat is in pain.
Home remedies arent always the cure, but they absolutely can help. The following are remedies and treatments that can help to manage the pain and encourage healthy urinary tract function. Theyre backed up by other real people who have used them to treat their cats urinary tract infections or other urinary tract diseases.
After we go over some gentle home remedies for your struggling kitty, check out the tips for urinary tract disease prevention. Recurrence is common and its important to take the right steps to make sure that your cat stays healthy after they recover.
While home remedies and even veterinary treatments can be hit-or-miss, prevention isnt quite as complicated.
What Causes Urinary Tract Disease
FLUTD is a multifactor disease. There is no single cause of feline urinary tract disease. Veterinarians do recognize that there are components that may contribute to the prevalence of the disease. For more detailed information, always contact your veterinarian. Risk factors include the following:
- Cats more than 1 year of age are most susceptible.
- Overweight cats, lack of exercise.
- History of chronic kidney disease or urinary tract procedures.
- Both male and females cats get the disease with equal frequency, but neutered male cats have a greater risk of life-threatening urethral obstruction from the crystals or stones.
Nutritional Risks: You already know that the food you feed your cat is extremely important to her overall health. But feeding the wrong food can contribute to the development of a urinary tract disease . With FLUTD, crystals or stones form within the urinary tract and cause irritation, pain and possibly blockage. In severe cases, this can lead to kidney damage or may even be fatal if not properly treated.
- An abundance of certain minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium — often found in grocery store brand cat food — can cause crystals to form in the urine, which sometimes leads to urinary stones.
- Food influences the pH, or acidity, of urine. Urine should be moderately acidic for a healthy urinary tract because its harder for struvite crystals to grow in an acidic environment
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What Is Interstitial Cystitis
Unlike acute cystitis, interstitial cystitis is inflammation of the bladder that has no infectious cause.
Symptoms are the same as a kidney infection with the manifestation of pain or pressure that may increase as the bladder fills. The urge to urinate is then more frequent but does not relieve pain or pressure.
These symptoms may be intermittent or become constant.
The exact cause of this condition is unknown but certain factors seem to encourage it such as:
- feces that appear to spread toxic substances that irritate the kidneys
- an autoimmune reaction
Although interstitial cystitis has the same symptoms as UTI, it does not respond to antibiotic treatment.
To treat interstitial cystitis it is recommended to:
change your diet by cutting out sour fruits, spicy dishes and limiting coffee
start therapy to strengthen the pelvic muscles
The Different Types Of Urinary Tract Infections In Cats
In cats, urinary tract infections can be serious. Urinary tract infections in cats can have serious consequences, including kidney damage and even death. Because UTIs are so common, you should be aware of their symptoms. Each type of UTI requires a different treatment approach. An antibiotic is usually required to treat a UTI that was caused by a bacteria, such as E. coli. If your UTI is caused by a fungus, your veterinarian may recommend antifungal medication. A blood test may also be required, depending on the severity of the UTI. If the UTI is mild, your cat may only require antibiotics. If the UTI is severe, you may need to do more tests, such as blood work and antibiotics, in addition to blood work and antibiotics. Despite the fact that UTIs can be serious, most cats will be completely healed in about 2-5 days, depending on the severity of the infection. If your cat requires medication, make sure it is hydrated and provides plenty of rest to aid in its healing process.
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What To Do If Your Cat Is Having Urinary Issues
If you suspect that your cat has a urinary condition like the ones described above, take them to the vet immediately because these issues can turn into a bigger problem, such as a urinary blockage.
Your vet will run a few important diagnostics to determine if your cat has a UTI or another issue. The first is to do a urine culture to see if there are any bacteria, such as e. Coli, responsible. They will also run a urinalysis to test your cats urinary pH and to look for blood in the urine. These tests will help determine the root cause if there is one. The cause could be an infection, crystals, or inflammation.
Depending on the cause, your vet may recommend antibiotics if there is an infection or urinary tract problem. If there is another issue, such as a urinary crystal or two, they may recommend putting your cat on a special prescription diet specifically formulated for urinary health. These cat foods are designed to create an inhospitable environment for both types of crystals.Changing your cat’s diet is sometimes the best way to rid them of their urinary stones.
For an immediate solution to the problem, they may also recommend pain meds if your cat is crying while trying to urinate and some antispasmodic medications to help if there is inflammation in the bladder.
Home Remedies For A Cat Uti
Rather than attacking the problem with antibiotics, which can lead to undesirable side effects, there are several natural home remedies for a cat UTI that are effective at treating the infection.
- works very well when it comes to severe urinary tract infections. Its an herb known for increasing the rate at which the kidneys filter out impurities and it can, therefore, increase urine production.
- Cranberries are a known and effective home treatment for urinary tract infections, though cranberry juice is very high in sugar so shouldnt be given to pets the same way a human would drink it. Wed recommend Fera Pet Organics Bladder Support for Cats.
- Parsley leaf is an effective diuretic that can aid in the elimination of waste. And, in addition to being highly nutritious, parsley leaves have antiseptic qualities that are great for treating urinary tract infections.
- Uva Ursi leaf is one of the most powerful natural astringents available. Holistic veterinarians use it to attack a variety of pathogens that are often the cause of UTIs. It can stop bleeding and reduce the inflammation associated with these infections.
- works wonderfully when theres inflammation in the urinary tract because it stimulates the immune system and attacks bacteria that cause these infections, while also soothing the body and reducing irritation.
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What Are Urinary Tract Infections
Sometimes, urinary tract conditions can be associated with other diseases, including chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. However, in many cases, there doesnt seem to be an underlying cause at all in this case, the technical diagnosis would be feline idiopathic cystitis .
Feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD, is the umbrella term for urinary tract conditions in cats. A feline urinary tract infection is typically characterized by painful and difficult urination. Urinary tract infections in cats can range from mild to fatal, so it is important that you consult a vet right away if you suspect your cat is suffering from a UTI.
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How Do Urinary Tract Infections Affect Cats
Urinary tract infections, sometimes known as UTIs, are frightening-sounding conditions. When it comes down to it, urinary tract infections are a type of bacterial illness that is really fundamental in its structure. Because of its location within the body, the illness has been given the label urinary tract infection. Infection of the urinary tract in humans and animals is referred to as a UTI. The urinary system is comprised of four organs: the bladder, the kidneys, the ureters, and the urethra.
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What Is A Cat Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection can affect any part of the cats urinary system.
This can include the bladder, the urethra , or even the kidneys.
An important fact to know about cat UTIs is that its not always a bacterial infection. Your cat may have inflammation in their bladder without an infection which is called cat cystitis or sterile urinary tract inflammation.
What Are Cat Urinary Tract Infections
A cat UTIis an infection of the cats urinary tract. Infections affecting the lower portion of the urinary tract are known as feline lower urinary tract disease .
Most urinary tract infections in cats occur when the bacteria Escherichia coli enters through the cats urethra and settles into the cats bladder . If left untreated, it leads to incontinence, painful urination, and other urinary tract issues.
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Use Essential Oils With Caution
Oregano essential oil is well known for its strong antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that oregano oil can be very effective at killing E.coli, but it should be noted these studies are generally done in vitromeaning in a lab using scientific techniques, not performed in humans with infections. Lemongrass oil and clove oil may also be a home remedy for UTIs because of their antimicrobial properties, but both have been studied against harmful bacteria in similar experiments as Oregano oil.
Its important to take care before using essential oils as a treatment. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy advises against ingesting these oils. Instead, essential oils may be safely used topically with a carrier oil or inhaled from a diffuser.
Home Remedies For Cat Utis And Other Urinary Issues
If you notice that your cat is having trouble urinating and suspect that they have a UTI, take them to the vet to make sure nothing else is wrong . This professional recourse is the safest bet.
That being said, there are a few home remedies you can try to help alleviate a UTI or prevent urinary problems from popping up in the first place.
If your cat is also experiencing vomiting as a sign or symptom of their UTI, take a look at our article on home remedies for cat vomiting to help alleviate your cats pain!
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What Are Urinary Tract Infections In Cats
Urinary tract infections are not common in cats. Only 1-3% of cats with signs of urinary tract disease will have a urinary tract infection.
Because they can resemble so many other conditions, UTIs need to be distinguished from other conditions, such as crystals in the urine. Fortunately, by running some simple tests, your veterinarian will be able to tell the difference.
In most cases, UTIs in cats are usually caused by bacteria. Bacterial urinary tract infections in cats are generally relatively easy to treat and respond well to medications. Chronic infections, or those that do not respond to regular medication, can require more testing to figure out why your cat is at higher risk for urinary tract infections.
Do I Really Have To See A Doctor For A Uti
It may seem unnecessary to see a doctor for such a common illness. Why not just let it go and treat it on your own? Dr. Elizabeth Rice, a licensed naturopathic doctor and primary care physician at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, has tips for natural treatments, but says you always have to be careful. A partially treated or mistreated UTI can quickly become a serious condition known as pyelonephritis , so care must always be taken when treating UTIs naturally.
If youre just starting to feel or see potential UTI symptoms, you can try a few natural remedies to try to flush out the bacteria and reduce inflammation before the infection really takes hold, Rice says. Increase your intake of fluids to help flush the bladder. But if the symptoms persist more than a day, or get worse, you have to go to the doctor.
Going to the doctor may be a bit annoying, but a UTI that morphs into a kidney infection is way worse than an afternoon in the waiting room. Kidney infections can lead to potentially life-threatening sepsis or permanent kidney damage. Seeing a doctor to prescribe antibiotics may ultimately help you avoid a lifetime of medical complications.
You know your body best, so listen to it. You may not run to the doctor after one weird-feeling pee. If you start to have mild symptoms, here are a few natural choices that may help you out.
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How Does A Cat Get A Urinary Tract Infection
There are a variety of conditions that cats can get that affect the urinary tract that is labeled a feline lower urinary tract disease .
A bacterial UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, usually by ascending up the urethra and entering the bladder. There are numerous causes for cat UTIs, whether bacterial or inflammatory.
These urinary conditions can occur at any age, but are usually seen in middle-aged, overweight cats that dont have a lot of environmental enrichment, are in multi-cat households, are prone to stress, and eat a dry kibble diet.
What Is Urinary Tract Infection In Cats
Urinary Tract Infection in cats is characterized by frequent urination, problems trying to urinate, bladder discomfort, and sometimes blood in the urine. Commonly they will not urinate in their litter box. When suffering from urinary tract infection the feline seems to prefer smooth surfaces like the floor or any other smooth surface such as a bathtub, or shower enclosure.
Cat’s often develop infections in their lower urinary system. If you have a cat, you will have to deal with UTI’s. Additionally, it is not just urinary tract infections that can cause issues, other issues that can affect your cat include incontinence, bladder stones, and cancer. Some bladder issues may share the same symptoms as urinary tract infections. It’s important to consult with a vet if your cats UTI does not go away.
Fortunately, Herbal and Holistic remedies for treating UTI’s in cats have proven effective!We recommend trying Prana Pets UTI Support for Cats. Below you can read more about common home remedies to help treat the UTI.
Here is Karen’s story…
My cat had urinary tract infections and I did not know what to do! I did not want to use conventional medicine so I figured id try the Uti support when I came across it online. I was really surprised by how quickly the infection went away. Also thank you for the CBD Oil, happy I found a company that has the real thing.
Karen R. -Nashville Tn
Verified Buyer
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Habits That Put You At Risk Of Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections are caused by microorganisms usually bacteria that enter the urethra and bladder, causing inflammation and infection. Though a UTI most commonly happens in the urethra and bladder, bacteria can also travel up the ureters and infect your kidneys.
SNS | New Delhi | January 3, 2022 1:10 pm
UTI- infection
Having a urinary tract infection, or UTI is not just uncomfortable but also painful. It is often referred to in the Philippines in local lingo as balisawsaw. What starts as a seemingly simple bacterial infection could lead to life-threatening conditions, such as septic shock.
Most of the UTIs affect the lower urinary tract or the bladder and are called acute uncomplicated cystitis. If you are frequently urinating or if you are experiencing pain or dysuria, you may have acute uncomplicated cystitis UTI.
Although acute uncomplicated cystitis may not be thought of as a serious condition, the quality of life of those who have this is often significantly affected. The person will experience at the most six days of discomfort.
Urinary tract infections are very common, occurring in 1 out of 5 women sometime in their lifetime. Though UTIs are common in women, they can also happen to men, older adults, and children. One to 2% of children develops urinary tract infections. Each year, 8 million to 10 million visits to doctors are for urinary tract infections.
Seven Habits That Cause UTI
1. SITTING FOR LONG PERIODS
2. EXCESSIVE MUNCHING ON SWEETS
7. PREGNANCY