Last Updated on April 10, 2020
Just like humans, cats too can suffer from the occasional UTI. This can be very uncomfortable and unsettling for a cat because litter often irritates it more. If you think your cat may have a UTI, here are the symptoms, why they occur, and what you can do to help them.
Cat UTI Symptoms
The most common symptom that cat owners will notice is bloody urine. This tends to be noticed when the litter box is being cleaned out or if the cat starts peeing outside the litter box. Some cats, especially females, will look for a soft place to urinate on when they have a UTI.
Other Symptoms:
- Pain when urinating
- Frequent urinating
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Slowing of urine flow
- Uneasiness/Restlessness
UTI Causes in Cats
For most cats, the cause of a UTI is unknown. There is speculation that diets high in grains and other acidic forming foods increase the risk of contracting an infection. Another thing thought to cause them is cheaper or less “healthy” brands of cat litter. The dust enters when burying and causes irritation. Low dust forming or no dust litters are best for cats. Underlying health issues can increase the risks such as interstitial cystitis or gamma herpesvirus but as mentioned, in most cases the cause is simply unknown.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can cause similar symptoms to a UTI but are often more serious and painful. If your cat’s symptoms are long-standing and severe, they must be seen by a Vet.
Cat UTI Treatment
For most cats who get urinary tract infections, it will clear up on its own. You likely won’t even notice your cat had one. If you do notice, it is likely more severe and they will need treatment.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The easiest and cheapest treatment for a cat is ACV or “apple cider vinegar”. You will want to purchase ACV that has “the mother” in it and dilute some with water, 2 parts water to 1 part ACV. Giving your cat 2ml of this 3 times a day should clear up the infection in 72 hours or less.
Urinary Tract Irritations Control Supplement
If you want a homeopathic approach, King Bio’s Urinary Tract Irritations Control supplement is the way to go. It not only cures the infection but helps prevent them from happening again. It is simple to administer it as well as you just put some in your cat’s water. It can also be added to food if your cat is finicky about the taste or smell.
Antibiotics
If the natural approach does not work, it is best to take your cat in to see a Vet. Some infections can go deeper and cause a lot more issues, some of which you will not be able to tell by looking at your cat. The Vet will check for blockage of the urethra and if this is clear, they will likely administer a low-dose antibiotic to help rid the infection.
Cat UTI Prevention
You can help prevent a UTI from happening by making diet changes, getting a better (cleaner) cat litter, and being sure there are no irritants you are using in your home. I suggest getting some treats to help support the urinary tract as well as getting a low dust or no-dust cat litter. Avoid using any kind of carpet powders or deodorizes as they can contribute to causing a UTI in your cat.
i gave this to my cat and his mouth began foaming. are you sure it’s suppose to be 2 parts water to 1 part acv??
Had no idea you could use ACV for cats too! I have used it for myself with success.