Feline Urinary Tract Infections
Feline urinary infections have a number of causes. The conglomerate term for such disorders is feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Treatment for FLUTD depends on the underlying reasons for the cat's symptoms. Such reasons range from simple bacterial infections to malignancies, so it is important for the animal to be diagnosed promptly to ensure effective treatment. Although urinary tract infections can occur in cats of any age, they are most common in cats between 1 and 4 years of age. It is uncommon for kittens or geriatric cats to suffer from this ailment.
Causes of FLUTD
Feline urinary dysfunctions may result from one or more of the following:
- Bacterial infection
- Interstitial cystitis
- Blockage of the urethra
- Bladder stones
- Bladder cancer
When none of these causes can be delineated, the condition is considered to be bladder inflammation, also known as cystitis.
Symptoms of FLUTD
Symptoms of feline urinary infections may range from mild to severe. Because untreated urinary infections are serious and can lead to kidney failure, it is best to err on the side of caution and seek veterinary attention for any cat exhibiting one or more of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty urinating, frequent or prolonged squatting
- Pain upon urination
- Passing of cloudy or bloody urine
- Urinating in inappropriate places
- Constant licking of urethral opening
- Dribbling of urine
- Abdominal distension
In addition to urinary symptoms, cats with urinary infections may appear sick, drinking excessively, vomiting, appearing uncomfortable, and exhibiting general malaise.
Diagnosis of FLUTD
In order to diagnose a feline urinary infection, a thorough physical examination is necessary. In addition to examining the cat for abdominal distension, the veterinarian palpates to feel for a thickened or contracted bladder wall. Diagnostic tests are also administered, including blood work, urinalysis, urine culture, X-rays with contrast dye, and possibly an ultrasound scan.
Treatment of FLUTD
Treatment of a feline urinary infection depends on its cause. If a bacterial infection is to blame, antibiotics are prescribed. If crystals are present in the urine, dietary changes may be necessary. Increased water intake, sometimes in the form of fluid therapy, may be needed. Medications to acidify the urine may also be used as treatment. When the cause of the infection is a urethral blockage, urinary catheterization may be needed. If a bladder stone or tumor is present, surgical intervention is required.