Why does a cat urinate with blood and often? - briefly
A cat may urinate with blood due to underlying health issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, or tumors. Frequent urination can be a symptom of these conditions, often accompanied by pain and discomfort. It is crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Why does a cat urinate with blood and often? - in detail
A cat urinating with blood, also known as hematuria, can be a sign of several underlying health issues. This condition is often accompanied by frequent urination, which can indicate an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.
One common cause of bloody urine in cats is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are typically caused by bacteria such as E. coli, which can enter the cat's body through the urethra and ascend to the bladder. The presence of blood in the urine may be due to inflammation or irritation of the bladder lining. Frequent urination is often a result of the cat's attempt to relieve discomfort or pain associated with the infection.
Another potential cause is feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). This condition encompasses various disorders that affect the bladder and urethra, including cystitis, urolithiasis (bladder stones), and urinary blockages. In cats with FLUTD, the frequent urge to urinate may be due to inflammation or obstruction within the urinary tract. Blood in the urine can occur as a result of irritation, infection, or trauma to the bladder wall.
In some cases, hematuria and frequent urination may be symptoms of a more serious condition such as cancer of the urinary tract. Although less common than UTIs or FLUTD, it is essential to consider this possibility, especially in older cats.
It is crucial for cat owners to recognize the signs of hematuria and seek veterinary care promptly. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, straining to urinate, frequent attempts to urinate without producing much urine, strong-smelling urine, and urinating outside the litter box. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to severe complications such as urinary blockages, which are life-threatening emergencies in male cats.
Veterinarians typically perform a physical examination and collect a urine sample for analysis. Additional diagnostic tests may include blood work, X-rays, or ultrasound to identify the underlying cause of the hematuria and frequent urination. Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis but may involve antibiotics for infections, dietary changes to manage bladder stones, or surgery in cases of obstruction or cancer.
In conclusion, a cat urinating with blood and often can indicate various health issues ranging from UTIs to FLUTD and even cancer. Prompt veterinary attention is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.