Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue for cats, and they can be painful and potentially dangerous if left untreated.

Cats are masters of hiding illness and it is sometimes difficult to notice symptoms until they are quite ill.

As a cat owner, it's important to know the signs of a UTI so you can get your furry friend the care they need. Here are some common symptoms to look out for.

Understand the Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection.

 If your cat is experiencing a urinary tract infection, they may exhibit a variety of symptoms. These can include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and urinating outside of the litter box. Additionally, your cat may appear lethargic or show signs of discomfort when being touched in the abdominal area. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to take your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Monitor Your Cat's Litter Box Habits.

One of the easiest ways to tell if your cat has a urinary tract infection is to monitor their litter box habits. If your cat is urinating more frequently than usual or seems to be straining to urinate, it could be a sign of a UTI. Additionally, if you notice blood in your cat's urine or they are urinating outside of the litter box, it's important to take them to the vet for a check-up. Keep an eye on your cat's litter box habits and take note of any changes, as this can help you catch potential health issues early on.

There are now kitty litters that will indicate the health of your cat! These smart cat litters are essential if you have an aging cat, a cat that is prone to UTI's or if the health of your cat is important to you. More on this later!

Check for Pain or Discomfort During Urination.

If your cat has a urinary tract infection, they may experience pain or discomfort while urinating. This can cause them to cry out or meow while using the litter box, or they may avoid using the litter box altogether. Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort during urination, such as straining, vocalizing, or taking longer than usual to urinate. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to take your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Look for Signs of Blood in the Urine.

One of the most common signs of a urinary tract infection in cats is the presence of blood in their urine. This can be difficult to detect, as cats often urinate in hidden or hard-to-reach places. However, if you notice any pink or red discoloration in your cat's urine, it's important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. Blood in the urine can be a sign of a serious infection or other underlying health issue, and prompt treatment is essential for your cat's health and well-being.

Schedule a Veterinary Appointment

If you suspect that your cat has a urinary tract infection, it's important to schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to perform a physical exam and run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your cat's symptoms. Depending on the severity of the infection, your cat may need antibiotics or other medications to help them recover. By seeking prompt veterinary care, you can help ensure that your cat gets the treatment they need to feel better and stay healthy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats and can be a serious health issue if left untreated. Owners of outdoor cats are more likely to miss the symptoms as they roam about freely and it can be difficult to tell if your cat has a urinary tract infection, but there are some signs to look out for. If your cat is urinating more frequently than usual, seems to be in pain while urinating, or is urinating outside of the litter box, it may be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Additionally, if you notice blood in your cat's urine or a strong odour, it's important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Changing your cat's diet to include more wet food can also help prevent urinary tract infections. However, one of the best ways to prevent UTIs in cats is to make sure they are drinking enough water and staying properly hydrated.

Using Cat Litter to Diagnose Urinary Tract Infections

One way to tell if your cat has a urinary tract infection is by using a special cat litter known as Fit Litter,  that changes color when your cat urinates on it.

The litter contains a pH indicator that will turn a different color if your cat's urine is too acidic or alkaline, which can be a sign of a urinary tract infection.

However, it's important to note that this method is not a substitute for a proper diagnosis from a veterinarian.

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