Unfortunately, many cat owners overlook cat urinary tract infection symptoms, assuming their cat has behavioral problems. This can cause a cat to endure unnecessary suffering and, in some cases, even death. Take a few minutes to learn about urinary symptoms in cats to prevent the pain of UTIs and even save your cat’s life.
If you have ever had a urinary tract infection, then you understand how painful this condition can be. Chances are you clutched the sides of the seat, wincing at the sharp, burning pain with nothing more than a few drops of urine to show for it. You felt the need to urinate more, but dreaded your next trip to the bathroom.
Your cat is not much different. If you notice your cat straining in the litter box, she may be exhibiting the more classic symptoms of a cat urinary tract infection.
Some things to keep in mind include:
- frequent visits to the litter box;
- repetitive squats;
- not using the litter box;
- and even balancing on the edge of the sandbox.
If you notice these behaviors, you should take your cat to the vet right away. Again, think about how you felt when you had a UTI. Do you remember the itching and burning pain you felt? If your cat continually licks his crotch or groin area, this is another of the most common urinary symptoms in cats.
When you had a urinary tract infection, did you ever groan in pain as you fought the urge to scratch the area? Again, your cat may exhibit these same behaviors like crying, howling, and scratching in an effort to deal with the horrible pain and itching that accompany cat urinary symptoms.
There are a number of causes of urinary symptoms in cats, including bacterial or viral infections, trauma, stress, bladder stones, and even tumors. You should know that this disease is usually more serious in male cats, since the urinary tract may be obstructed. Whatever the cause of your cat’s problems, your vet will be able to make a proper diagnosis.
Another important warning sign is blood in your cat’s urine, which you may notice if she urinates on the floor. If you notice this symptom, take him to the vet immediately; if you wait until tomorrow, it may be too late. Your veterinarian can confirm whether your cat is suffering from a feline UTI or obstruction through a variety of diagnostic tests, including a physical exam, urinalysis, blood tests, and sometimes x-rays.
Treatment of feline UTI
In severe cases of a cat’s urinary tract obstruction, your vet may need to catheterize your cat or possibly even perform surgery. Your cat may also need IV fluids to prevent dehydration while undergoing treatment, and you won’t be able to take him home until he can drink and urinate without assistance.
If no blockage is found, then your vet can diagnose a bladder infection. She may prescribe antibiotics to treat the condition. Talk to your vet about natural herbal compounds to treat your kitty’s infection. More and more veterinarians are relying on herbal remedies to treat bladder infections and other urinary symptoms in cats.
Think of some ways you have dealt with your own UTI. Has her healthcare provider suggested she drink cranberry juice and take more vitamin C? You can use a similar approach to treat your cat’s UTI. Holistic vets are increasingly trying to avoid the use of antibiotics because they can actually make bladder infections worse in some cases. And its excessive use has caused the proliferation of bacterial strains resistant to antibiotics.
As a reminder, your cat may have a urinary tract infection if it shows one or more of the following symptoms:
1. Pee on the floor
2. Blood-tinged urine
3. Effort in the litter box
2. Constantly licking the snout area
3. Screaming in pain
Now that you know what to look for to identify cat urinary tract infection symptoms, you can incorporate natural herbal remedies into your cat’s diet to help treat painful symptoms and prevent recurring infections. These herbs are safe and natural, and can be used long-term without the risk of side effects.