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Content by Dr Nicole Olewinski – BVSc MRCVS
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, usually by travelling up the urethra into the bladder.
Despite being well-known, UTIs are actually uncommon in cats. Studies suggest only a small percentage of cats will develop a true bacterial infection during their lifetime. Many cats with urinary symptoms actually have other conditions instead, which is why accurate diagnosis is important.
Urinary tract infections in cats are usually caused by bacteria. These bacteria often come from the naturally occurring populations at the entrance to the urogenital tract or from the gut. Most cats that develop a UTI have an underlying issue that gives these bacteria an opportunity to cause an infection.
Urine is naturally antibacterial, and regular urination helps flush the bladder. However, inflammation, blood, glucose in diabetic cats, or very dilute urine can reduce these natural defences – making it easier for bacteria to grow. Cats that hold their urine for long periods rather than going regularly to the litter tray may also be at increased risk.
Any breed can develop a urinary tract infection, but it is more commonly seen in older female cats. Any cat that struggles to groom itself effectively due to a long coat, obesity, arthritis or digestive issues will have a higher risk of developing a UTI. Some studies suggest Abyssinians and Persians may be at slightly higher risk.
Cats with underlying conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes or hyperthyroidism are also more susceptible to urinary tract infections.
Some cats may have bacteria in their urine without obvious signs. However, common symptoms include:
Urine dipsticks can provide a quick indication of changes within the urine, but they can sometimes give misleading results in animals. For greater accuracy, vets will often spin down a urine sample and examine the sediment under a microscope to check for bacteria, inflammatory cells or crystals.
To ensure the most effective antibiotic is used, a urine culture and sensitivity test may be recommended. This helps avoid delays caused by using antibiotics that the bacteria are resistant to.
Once a UTI is confirmed, treatment typically involves antibiotics. If there is significant inflammation or discomfort, anti-inflammatories and pain relief may also be prescribed.
Management of underlying risk factors is just as important. This may include dietary changes, supplements, weight management, or support with grooming to reduce the chance of recurrence.
With mild infections, many cats improve within a few days and make a full recovery within a week.
In some cases, infections can be more severe, recur frequently, or spread beyond the bladder. Cats may show more obvious discomfort, including vocalising when urinating, producing very small amounts of urine, or having visibly bloody urine. They may also become generally unwell, with reduced appetite, vomiting, or lethargy.
While UTIs themselves are uncommon, any urinary tract disease in male cats can lead to a blocked bladder, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.
In more severe cases, the same urine tests will be performed. However, additional investigations such as blood samples, ultrasound or X-rays will be recommended to look for underlying conditions or complications.
More severe infections often require a longer course of antibiotics, ideally guided by urine culture results. Hospitalisation may be needed if the kidneys are affected or if an underlying condition – such as diabetes – requires stabilisation.
If the bladder becomes blocked – which is more likely in male cats – emergency treatment is needed to relieve the obstruction, empty the bladder and support the kidneys.
When cats have severe or recurrent issues, prognosis depends on any underlying conditions and whether complications – such as kidney involvement – are present. Long-term medication and management plans are often needed in these cases.
“If your cat develops urinary signs, don’t be surprised if your vet recommends more than just a short course of antibiotics.
“We know from experience that urinary problems in cats can be frustrating and sometimes serious, but they are rarely ‘just’ an infection. When bacteria are identified, we immediately start thinking about why the body’s natural defence mechanisms have failed. This means looking for underlying causes.
“You can help get the ball rolling by collecting a urine sample at home: the fresher, the better. Empty your cat’s litter tray, rinse and dry it, then either leave it empty or use non-absorbent beads from a testing kit, and wait.
“You’ll likely be advised to go ahead with additional tests. But rest assured, this isn’t to complicate things. It’s to reduce the chances of you spending even more of your time in the consulting room when the problems come straight back.”
Dr Nicole Olewinski – BVSc MRCVS
If you’re thinking about getting a Petgevity Lifetime Plus policy, we’ll consider all pre-existing conditions when offering cover for your cat*.
When you apply for cat insurance, you need to let us know:
Find out more about Petgevity’s cat insurance for pre-existing conditions.
Choosing Petgevity to protect your pets gives you more than just vet fee cover. Here's what you get from our policy.
Dental accident
Covers your pet up to the chosen vet fee limit if they have a dental accident or injury. Always be sure to take your pet for annual dental check-ups, and follow your vet’s advice.
Behavioural treatment
Get expert help with your pet’s mental and emotional wellbeing, as advised by your vet. Cover up to your chosen vet fee amount or the cost of up to 12 sessions, whichever is lower (Lifetime Plus); or up to £1,000 (Lifetime).
Complementary therapy
As advised by your vet, this covers alternative treatments like acupuncture or hydrotherapy. Cover up to your chosen vet fee amount (Lifetime Plus); or up to chosen vet fee amount or £1,500, whichever is lower (Lifetime).
Emergency care
If you can’t look after your pet due to an emergency, such as an unplanned hospital visit, this covers you for up to £1,500 (Lifetime Plus) in minding costs.
Third-party liability for dogs
Covers you for legal costs if your dog causes injury to somebody or their pet, or causes loss or damage to someone’s property. Protects you for up to £2 million in a legal action.
Choice of optional extras
Need extra protection? Choose from several optional extras to cover your pet’s needs, including dental illness, or cover if your pet is stolen or lost.
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†For Lifetime Plus policies only – details correct as of 10 September 2024 via competitor websites. Competitor products are subject to their own T&Cs and can have different limits and requirements for cats versus dogs at different ages. For full details, please check the relevant policy wording. For full details of Petgevity pet insurance, please read our policy wording.
Straining to urinate, frequent trips to the litter tray, and urinating in unusual places are common signs. You may also notice licking of the genital area, or blood in the urine.
Diagnosis involves testing a urine sample. This may include examining it under a microscope and performing a bacterial culture to confirm infection and guide antibiotic choice.
Yes, especially if they spread to the kidneys or occur alongside other health problems. Cats that become lethargic, stop eating or struggle to urinate need urgent veterinary attention.
UTIs are more likely in older cats, particularly females. And when they do occur, there is often an underlying condition such as kidney disease or diabetes.
Stress is a common cause of feline idiopathic cystitis, which can lead to an infection, but stress is unlikely to cause a primary urinary infection.
†Lifetime Plus policies only
*Cover for pre-existing medical conditions is subject to acceptance. They will not be covered unless you have declared them and they are shown on your Confirmation of Cover.
**Illnesses and symptoms won’t be covered in the first 14 days and accidents won’t be covered in the first 2 days of the policy. This is unless you are switching from another lifetime pet insurance product with no break in cover and the claim you want to make would have been covered by your previous policy. Other exclusions may apply to other sections.