Common Feline Urological Diseases: Causes & Symptoms

Part 1: Cats' SelfInduced Urinary Tract Disorders

Cats can develop urinary tract issues due to several intrinsic factors, primarily centered around water quality, diet, and emotional state. Here are some key reasons:

1. Insufficient Water Intake

Cats, descendants of desertdwelling ancestors, naturally have a low thirst drive. This tendency can lead to urinary tract problems, as inadequate hydration is a common cause. Pet owners must ensure their feline friends drink enough water daily. It's challenging to break this habit, but it's crucial. On average, cats should consume at least 200 milliliters of water per day, which is roughly the equivalent of half a bottle of mineral water. To encourage drinking, consider providing a flowing water fountain or adding water to your cat's favorite treat containers.

2. Overweight Cats

Excess weight can strain a cat's kidneys and liver, potentially leading to urinary tract issues. Moreover, obesity can trigger other health problems, such as arthritis. It's important not to overindulge your cat and to maintain a healthy weight to prevent these issues.

3. Stress Response

When cats are exposed to a new and unfamiliar environment, they may experience stress, leading to anxiety and emotional upheaval. This stress can increase adrenal activity and affect neural functions, including those that regulate urination, potentially causing stressrelated urinary tract disorders.

Other Causes

Urinary tract infections, trauma, neurological disorders, tumors around the urinary tract, and congenital abnormalities can also lead to urinary tract issues. Older cats, neutered cats, and longhaired cats are particularly prone to these disorders.

Part 2: Clinical Symptoms of Urinary Tract Disorders in Cats

1. Frequent Urination

Cats may enter the litter box frequently, urinate shortly after leaving, and produce very little urine each time, if any.

2. Hematuria

The urine may appear reddish, resembling blood in the urine.

3. Dysuria

Cats may cry out or groan in pain during urination.

4. Licking of the Anal and Genital Areas

Due to discomfort, affected cats may frequently lick these areas.

5. Anxiety and Agitation, Decreased Appetite, and Vomiting

Cats may exhibit signs of anxiety, become irritable, eat less, and possibly vomit.

Warning from Oxygen Pet Doctor: If your cat shows these symptoms, it's a sign that their urinary system is in trouble. It's crucial to take your cat to a veterinarian immediately to prevent kidney failure or more severe complications.