Keep Plenty Of Clean Water Available
It it may seem obvious, water will help flush bacteria from your pets system, but its a common oversight. Dogs and cats have a high requirement for water, and If youre feeding a processed or cooked diet, that requirement is even higher. Dogs and cats are at risk of chronic low water intake which can be a factor in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infections. In addition, make sure their water dish is clean, since standing water can also be a breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria, such as, E. coli.
What Can Happen If A Canine Uti Is Left Untreated
UTIs are serious enough in their own right and can grow even worse if untreated. At best, a UTI can cause serious discomfort to your dog. If left untreated, UTIs may cause dysfunction of the lower urinary tract in which the bladder cannot empty completely. UTIs may also cause kidney and bladder stones, blood poisoning, infertility, kidney infections, and even kidney failure. In male dogs, UTIs can lead to prostate inflammation.
When Should You Go To The Vet
If left untreated, a UTI can get worse and cause additional problems for your feline. Bladder stones and even kidney infections can develop if the UTI isnt addressed in time. Worse, UTIs can even lead to FLUTD.
At the first sign of any UTI symptoms, you might be able to head off the infection and cure it early with one or more of the at-home natural remedies weve shared with you. But if things continue to get worse, youll need to take your cat to see a professional and ensure it gets the proper care necessary for treating a full-blown UTI.
If your cat is completely unable to urinate, youll need to take it to the vet. Likewise, if you see that their urine is bloody, things might be getting serious and you need to see a vet. Also, seek professional help if your cat is in high levels of pain.
Your vet can determine whether a UTI is the real issue or not and then treat the problem from there. They often use antibiotics to cure such ailments and this might be the only option if your cats UTI has progressed past the beginning stages.
Don’t Miss: Does Bladder Cancer Metastasis To Bone
Can A Dog Urinary Infection Cure Itself
Generally, urinary tract infections require some form of treatment. Very mild cases of UTIs may resolve themselves on their own, but cases with serious symptoms require veterinary attention. However, even if the case seems mild to you, dont be passive and expect it to go away by itself. You should always play it safe and, at the very least, give the vet a phone call to discuss your dogs symptoms and book an appointment if necessary.
Symptoms Of A Urinary Tract Infection In A Cat:
- Excessive grooming or licking of the genital or abdominal areas
- Frequent attempts to urinate, including multiple trips to the litter box
- Urinating in unusual places outside of the litter box, especially on a cool surface like tile or the bathtub
- Absence of large clumps in the litter box
- Straining to urinate or crying out while urinating
- Discolored urine or blood in urine
The most common symptom is when the cat is no longer going to the bathroom in their litter box. Do not assume this is a behavior issue. Take your feline companion to the vet to rule out a urinary tract infection or other serious problem.
Recommended Reading: Best Supplements For Bladder Infection
Causes Of Feline Urinary Tract Disease
FLUTD is a complex condition to diagnose and treat since there are multiple causes and contributing factors to this disease. Crystals, stones or debris can gradually build up in your cat’s urethra or bladder. Some other common causes of lower urinary tract issues in cats include:
- Incontinence due to excessive water consumption or weak bladder
- Spinal cord issues
- Urethral plug caused by the accumulation of debris from urine
- Bladder infection, inflammation, urinary tract infection
- Injury or tumor in the urinary tract
- Congenital abnormalities
- Emotional or environmental stressors
Urinary tract disease in cats is most often diagnosed in overweight, middle-aged cats who have little to no access to outdoors, eat a dry food diet or do not get enough physical activity, although cats of any age can get the condition. Male cats are also more prone to urinary diseases since their narrower urethras are more likely to become blocked.
Using an indoor litter box, emotional or environmental stress, multi-cat households or sudden changes to their everyday routine can also leave cats more vulnerable to urinary tract disease.
If your kitty is diagnosed with FLUTD it is essential to determine the underlying cause. FLUTD symptoms can be caused by serious underlying health issues such as bladder stones or infection due to cancer or a blockage.
How To Treat Your Cat’s Urinary Tract Infection
All pet owners know how difficult it is see your pet in pain and diagnosing the source of your pets discomfort can lead to even more frustration.
Because our pets are unable to communicate their symptoms we must resort to what we can observe, which often requires trial and error and expensive vet visits. Sometimes the symptoms are subtle, like minor lethargy.
Other times, an illness is apparent with obvious symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. The truth is, even the smallest behavioral changes can indicate a serious problem. When it comes to urinary tract infections, sometimes the first signs are easily missed. But UTIs are not to be taken lightly as they lead to even more severe infections if left untreated.
You May Like: Does Bladder Cancer Always Come Back
Cranberries Pills Or Powder
This fruit contains chemicals that can reduce or even stop the signs of cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder . It does not get rid of an infection, but it may stop it from coming back.
Do Not Use Cranberry Supplements Without Getting a Urinalysis Done
Don’t use the juice, though, as it is better to buy the pills or powder. I would not recommend using this for your cat before you have a urinalysis done.
If your cat is not concentrating their urine, that might be caused by kidney disease cranberries are contraindicated in these cats because it is acidic and contains benzoic acid, which can be toxic for a sick cat.
Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infections In Cats
Most cats with urinary tract infections will make frequent trips to the litter box and seem restless. They may go into the box and strain to pee but produce either a small amount of urine or no urine at all. Occasionally, their urine may appear bloody.
Some cats will avoid the litter box because they have associated it with the discomfort caused by the UTI. Instead, they may urinate in other places in your home. Sinks, bathtubs, and clean laundry are popular spots. Your cat also may vomit and seem lethargic as the problem progressesespecially male cats.
In most cases, acute and chronic urinary tract infections will cause very similar symptoms. However, some cats with the chronic form show no signs of disease.
Don’t Miss: How To Reduce Bladder Infection Pain
What To Do If You Suspect A Flutd
If your cat is having trouble urinating and displaying other signs of FLUTD, take her to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will give her a physical exam and collect urine samples. Blood work, x-rays, and abdominal ultrasound may also be recommended for diagnosis.
Most cases of FLUTD improve without medical treatment, but the symptoms can recur. Though they may not be life-threatening to your cat, they can be uncomfortable, so treatment can improve her overall quality of life. While treatment of FLUTD depends on the underlying cause, it is always beneficial to increase your cats water intake. Maintaining a healthy weight, feeding her canned food and encouraging her to use her litter box can also help. However, certain conditions simply cannot be treated at home. Bacterial cystitis should be treated with antibiotics, while stones must be surgically removed.
Its always best to be safe. A simple phone call to your vet when you first notice any of the above symptoms can help diagnose a problem much sooner and save your cat a longer period of discomfort. Its also important to monitor your cat after being diagnosed with FLUTD during treatment to ensure that the problem doesnt reoccur as cats are good at hiding their pain.
Also Check: Foods Good For Bladder Control
Bladder Stones And Crystals
Oliver
“Oliver was getting one UTI after another it got so bad we had to take him to emergency for urinary blockage. He kept peeing outside his litter box and sometimes we would hear him cry when he would go. My friend used your products and told us about the website. We were very skeptical at first but we are so glad we tried the products. We primarily used the Akutur along with Power Probiotic and NOT Drops. He hasn’t had a flareup in over 6 months. Thank you so much for helping our baby feel better!”
Lauren, California
Don’t Miss: What Can Help Overactive Bladder
Feline Urinary Tract Disease
FLUTD is actually a term that covers many clinical symptoms. FLUTD can lead to issues in your cats bladder and urethra, often causing the urethra to become blocked or preventing your cats bladder from properly emptying. Left untreated, these conditions can even become serious or life-threatening.
If your cat is suffering from FLUTD, they may find urination difficult, painful or impossible. They may also urinate more often, or in inappropriate areas outside the litter box .
Dog Natural Urinary Tract Infection Remedies Considerations
Cystitis can sometimes be reversed quickly, especially if caught early and before an infection has set in. Urinary tract infections are painful and need to be taken seriously. If caught and treated early, you can stop the pain and potential infection before your dog needs veterinary care. However, if your dog seems to be in discomfort or is straining to pass urine, see your veterinarian for an exam and urine tests to identify any underlying infection or health conditions. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications. Discuss the safety of natural treatments along with prescribed therapies in order to provide the most effective and appropriate treatment.
Recommended Reading: Can I Bathe My Kitten With Dawn
Read Also: Over The Counter Bladder Infection Medicine Walgreens
Top 6 Home Remedies For Dog & Cat Uti
Urinary tract infections are frequent clinical bacterial infections in dogs and cats, especially in older dogs and cats. Approximately 14% of dogs overall will encounter a UTI during their lifetime, with an increased occurrence in spayed female dogs and cats. As your pet ages though, the likelihood that they will suffer from UTI or bladder issues, such as incontinence or bladder inflammation increases by about 75%. Because antibiotics are the most common veterinary treatment for UTIs in pets, the bacteria causing UTI have become increasingly more resistant to antibiotic therapies.
Further, the more frequent a dog or cat is exposed to antibiotics, the more likely they are to experience other negative side effects from the related therapy. For this reason, we believe it is vital to make use of home remedies and natural therapies that eliminate urinary bacteria and strengthen the bladder system in dogs and cats to reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections. The best home remedies for dog or cat UTI include drinking plenty of water, staying clean and dry, and consuming cranberry, D-Mannose, and probiotics. Read on for all 6 of our best home remedies for dog and cat UTI.
Prevention Key : Invest In A Water Fountain
If your cat refuses to drink from their water bowl, theyre only trusting their natural instincts. In addition to providing more water through their food, you can hack those instincts by making their water more appealing.
We recommend using a cat water fountain instead of a bowl of still water. Thanks to constant aeration, moving water in a fountain smells, looks, and usually is cleaner and fresher than water in a bowl. Besides appealing to your cats need for non-stagnant drinking water, the movement of the water flowing and bubbling taps into their naturally adventurous spirit.
We recommend this cat water fountain from Miaustore.
With 8 different drinking areas, including 4 easy-flowing bodies of water, 3 mini waterfalls, and a bubbling spring, the fountain appeals to various feline personalities and drinking preferences. The European-made fountain is built from ceramic which is more hygienic than plastic. Its also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
You CAN treat your cats UTI and other forms of FLUTD at home.
Apple cider vinegar, stress reduction, bone broth, and D-mannose can all help to fix the problem. A high-moisture diet and a water fountain will help you make sure it never happens again.
If your cat has a urinary blockage, however, you need to get your cat to a veterinarian. Urethral blockages are ticking bombs and, if they dont clear within 24 hours, may cause your cats bladder to burst. Only a vet can help you with that.
Read Also: Pressure Points For Bladder Control
When To Seek A Veterinarian
It is quite important to get a proper diagnosis if you cat shows any signs of illness. After knowing the exact problem as well as the root cause of the problem, you can thereafter decide the proper treatment for that specific uti.
Home remedies can never replace a vets diagnosis. If you suspect the cat is ill, immediately see your veterinarian. Remember that cats are good at hiding their pain, especially kittens. This will delay the treatment and can cause irreversible damage.
If you have financial problems, try the following ways:
- You should share this around where you live, maybe your friends or someone else give can you some hints on where to go for help.
- Try your best to find a local cheap vet clinic where you can help him reduce the damage.
- Youre also able to find a veterinarian around who can perform a cat urine analysis when you bring the sample to the clinic. Many veterinarians want you to carry the cat to visit the office so they can reduce your vet costs. That way you will know for sure whether your cat has a uti or something else.
- If they give you medicine, let them know you need to buy around. They will write a prescription for you then.
- The humane society may be your best bet or find other places for help with vet costs.
- Also find your SPCA and beg. Perhaps they also provide volunteer services for veterinary care.
Recommended Reading: How Much Food To Give A Cat
What Is The Best Cat Food For Urinary Health
Remember, moisture is the key to long-term urinary tract health. A high-moisture, biologically appropriate diet is one of the best things you can offer to keep your cat healthy. Choose low-carbohydrate, meat-based canned foods, or a nutritionally balanced homemade or commercial raw food.
Take a look at our guide to the 6 Best Cat Foods for Urinary Tract Health.
Quick heads upwe are in an affiliate program with the next cat food Im about to mention, so if you buy it through our links, we will get a percentage from the sale. Youll also be supporting us so we can bring you more content and information. Thank you!
If youre looking for high-quality moist cat food with homemade freshness and quality but doesnt require any effort to prepare, try NomNomNow cat food . NomNomNow cat food is made with human-quality ingredients and is made fresh to order in their San Francisco and Nashville kitchens. The foods quality and moisture content make it great for cats with urinary issues.
NomNomNow cat food is available through a personalized subscription, or, if youre not sure your cat will like the food, you can get a six pouch variety pack. If youd like to purchase a NomNomNow cat food subscription, your cat food quote.
Dont Miss: My Cat Is Twitching And Shaking
You May Like: Bladder Feels Full All The Time
Home Remedies For Cat Utis And Other Urinary Issues
If you notice that your cat is having trouble urinating and suspect that they have a UTI, take them to the vet to make sure nothing else is wrong . This professional recourse is the safest bet.
That being said, there are a few home remedies you can try to help alleviate a UTI or prevent urinary problems from popping up in the first place.
If your cat is also experiencing vomiting as a sign or symptom of their UTI, take a look at our article on home remedies for cat vomiting to help alleviate your cats pain!
We Would Love The Opportunity To Care For Your Furry Friends
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment.
Were social! Follow us on,, and for all the latest updates!
Don’t Miss: Yoga Exercises For Prolapsed Bladder