What Every Cat Owner Needs to Know

Feline UTI Explained: What Every Cat Owner Needs to Know

By: Nikidelle Renee V. Hallare, DVM

 

Urinary tract infection (aka U.T.I) in cats are more common-and more serious-than many pet owners realize. While they may start with subtle signs such as frequent urination or accidental peeing outside the box, these may escalate quickly into painful and potentially life-threatening health conditions if left untreated.

 

Whether you’re a first-time cat parent or a seasoned feline lover, understanding the cause, symptoms, and treatment options is essential in giving your cat a healthy and a comfortable life.

 

How does it even happen?

 

A UTI generally occurs when a bacterium travels up to the tube called “Urethra” and into the urinary bladder. Once the bacteria infect the urinary tract, they can grow and multiply, thus causing UTI. In addition to this, bacteria can change the urine’s pH which in some cases, can contribute to the development of bladder or urethral stones. Other symptoms include Dysuria, Hematuria, Periuria, Pollakiuria and Stranguria.

 

Anatomically speaking, female cats are usually predisposed to UTIs due to their shorter and wider urethra. But for male cats, they are usually predisposed to what we call “urethral blockage” since their urethra is narrower compared to female cats.

 

Diagnosing UTI in Cats

 

Since FLUTDs and UTIs have similar symptoms, it’s recommended to bring your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis. Laboratory tests such as Urinalysis and Blood works may be required by your vet to rule out any underlying conditions correlated to UTI such as Diabetes and Kidney failure. 

 

Management and Treatment for UTI - once the necessary laboratory tests are done, your veterinarian will prescribe you the appropriate medication specified for your cat (depending on the severity and condition). 

 

Your veterinarian may also recommend you to change their diet if deemed necessary. It’s important to encourage your cat to increase their water intake for rehydration and flushing out unnecessary waste in their body.

 

For severe cases such as urethral blockage and bladder stones, surgery may be necessary to immediately resolve the issue before it becomes more life- threatening.

 

Can I prevent this from happening?

 

Not all the cats are built the same. Depending on your cat’s age, diet, and lifestyle, your vet may give you a tailored recommendation that is suited for their current condition and overall health. A well-balanced diet, healthy lifestyle,increased water intake, and regular vet check-ups can do a lot in preventing UTI.

 

References:

 

Dowling, P. M. (2025, June 5). Pharmacotherapeutics in bacterial urinary tract infections in animals. MSD Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-urinary-system/pharmacotherapeutics-in-bacterial-urinary-tract-infections-in-animals#Antimicrobial-Treatment-of-Bacterial-UTIs_v4697010

 

Dorsch R, Teichmann-Knorrn S, Sjetne Lund H. Urinary tract infection and subclinical bacteriuria in cats: A clinical update. J Feline Med Surg. 2019 Nov;21(11):1023-1038. doi: 10.1177/1098612X19880435. Epub 2019 Oct 10. PMID: 31601143; PMCID: PMC6826873.

 

Taylor S, et al. 2025. iCatCare consensus guidelines on the diagnosis and management of lower urinary tract diseases in cats. J Feline Med Surg. 2025 Feb;27(2):1098612X241309176. doi: 10.1177/1098612X241309176. PMID:39935081; PMCID: PMC11816079.