Cat urinary tract problems and infections

It is said that training a cat to use the litter box is waaaay easier than training a puppy. But if you see your cat struggling to use the litter box, it can be a sign of urinary tract problems and infections.

Moreover, urinary tract problems and infections, are more dangerous and cause complications in male cats.

This is because of the urinary anatomy.

Male cats have a narrower urethra compared to female cats, so when a urinary infection takes place, urine pH is changed greatly by the bacteria and will lead to crystal formation. Those crystals formed will have the possibility to block a male cat's narrow urethra.

What to look out for

Bacteria affecting your cat's urethra is what causes urinary tract problems and infections. When your cat is going through a possible urinary tract problem or infection, look out for these signs:

'Prevention is better than cure'

If you noticed two or more of the signs mentioned above, the best way to know if your cat really has urinary tract problems (without taking her to the vet) is to use a special kind of cat litter that changes colors to alert you of any potential illnesses that can be detected through your cat's urine.

If your cat is sick, the most accurate diagnosis will come from a vet. However, you can always do some things to help your cat avoid having any urinary problems.

Even though it can be demanding, prevention is always better than cure, they say.

Be on top of your cat's hygiene. Always keeping your cat's litter box clean will prevent her from 'holding it in' and she will pee when it is necessary. A clean litter box will also prevent bacteria from spreading.

Increase water intake. Give your cat a bowl of fresh and clean water a few times a day. Water will dilute your cat's urine and will make her pee more often, flushing out bacteria in the urinary tract.

Reduce stressers. UTI can also be caused by stress. What stresses out your cat? Is it the dirty litter box? The stray animals outside? A new pet? House visitors? Loud noises from the neighborhood? A change in her routine? Identify what causes stress in your cat and address it.

Provide a healthy diet. Your cat's diet is also a factor. To prevent UTI from happening, give her a balanced and healthy diet that will keep her fit. Overweight and diabetic cats are more at risk in having urinary tract problems.

Treating feline urinary tract problems and infections

If you feel like your cat is experiencing urinary tract problems, the first thing you should do?

Take her to the vet. Take your cat to the vet as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment. Urinary tract problems can be treatable but it can also be life threatening if not give medical attention immediately.

Cat diapers will be a great help in preventing accidents around your house while your cat is on medication since they are susceptible in peeing anywhere even when they are litter box trained.

Managing urinary tract problems and infections in your cat can be a trying time but with proper management, care, and cat diapers, your cat will be back in shape in no time!