As a cat owner, observing changes in your feline friend’s urinary habits can be concerning, particularly when they involve increased urine volume accompanied by blood in the urine. This combination of symptoms can indicate a variety of underlying health issues that require prompt attention from a veterinarian. In this article, we’ll discuss the potential causes of increased urine volume and blood in cat urine, as well as the steps you should take to address these issues.
1. Potential Causes
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): One of the most common causes of blood in cat urine is a urinary tract infection. UTIs can cause inflammation and irritation of the bladder and urethra, leading to increased urination and the presence of blood in the urine.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): FLUTD is a broad term that encompasses a variety of conditions affecting the lower urinary tract, including bladder stones, crystals, and inflammation. These conditions can cause pain, discomfort, and increased urination, sometimes accompanied by blood in the urine.
Kidney Disease: Kidney disease can also cause changes in urination patterns and the presence of blood in the urine. This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and producing urine. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, it can affect the quality and quantity of urine produced.
Cancer: In rare cases, blood in cat urine can be a sign of cancer, particularly in the urinary tract or kidneys.
2. Symptoms to Watch For
In addition to increased urine volume and blood in the urine, other symptoms that may accompany these issues include:
- Straining to urinate
- Frequent urination
- Urinating outside the litter box
- Vocalizing during urination
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
3. Steps to Take
If you observe any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and may recommend additional diagnostic tests, such as urinalysis, blood work, or imaging studies, to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis, but may include antibiotics for UTIs, medication to dissolve bladder stones or crystals, or more intensive treatments for kidney disease or cancer. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions or address other underlying issues.
4. Prevention
While some urinary issues are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of UTIs and other urinary tract problems in your cat. These include:
- Encouraging your cat to drink plenty of water
- Providing a clean, accessible litter box
- Feeding a high-quality, balanced diet
- Regular veterinary check-ups
Conclusion
Increased urine volume accompanied by blood in cat urine can be a sign of serious health issues that require prompt attention from a veterinarian. By understanding the potential causes and symptoms of these issues, and taking proactive steps to prevent them, you can help ensure your feline friend enjoys a long and healthy life.
