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Urinary Problems in Cats

  • icon June 17, 2024
  • icon BY Skylar Duck
  • icon
    Cat
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In the world of cat health, few issues are as difficult and concerning as inappropriate urination.  It’s not the most pleasant subject, but understanding it is crucial for effectively addressing it. 

This is a problem that makes me nervous as an ER vet because it can become a life threatening problem very quickly. Particularly for male cats as they can get a blockage where they can’t urinate. 

Cats will show these signs by making a bathroom out of your laundry or rug or bed. Or spraying standing up on the couch. Or frequent trips to the box, staying in the box for a long time, pawing around and trying again and again. They may have reddish urine or darker brown urine. This can be hard to see in litter so people often notice when they pee on something else. 

Just outside of the box like if they are squatting in the box and missing is often because they don’t have a big enough box. Try a larger storage type box instead of the litter boxes at the store that is too small for many cats. Senior cats or cats with mobility problems often have a hard time getting in and out of the box. They do well with boxes that have lower sides. 

In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of inappropriate urination in cats, from medical conditions to behavioral issues. We’ll explore underlying conditions, diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures, providing you, cat parents with a valuable resource for navigating this common challenge.

What’s Up with Kitty’s Bathroom Habits?

So, you might be wondering, what exactly are we talking about when we say “urinary issues”? Well, it could be anything from your cat avoiding the litter box to using your bed or laundry as a litter box, increased frequency of trying to urinate, going in the box frequently or noticing blood in their urine. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions and behavioral issues.

Medical Causes of Inappropriate Urination:

Inappropriate urination in cats can stem from various medical conditions, necessitating a thorough veterinary evaluation. 

  • The most common cause is actually inflammation of the bladder from stress and urinary crystals
  • It is really important to make sure we aren’t missing another medical cause, however, as these require different treatments. 
  • Bladder stones or urinary crystals can cause major discomfort.
  • Bladder infections, or UTIs are relatively uncommon as a primary cause but still can occur.
  • Arthritis, though typically associated with older cats, can hinder proper litter box usage due to discomfort while squatting. 
  • Bladder tumors, while rare, should not be overlooked, particularly in older cats exhibiting symptoms like straining and bloody urine. 
  • Constipation can also lead to inappropriate elimination, characterized by straining and small, hard stools. 
  • Feline idiopathic cystitis, a manifestation of stress-induced bladder inflammation, is a significant concern in younger cats, especially males prone to urinary blockages.
  • Male cats, in particular, are at risk for urinary obstruction whenever they show abnormal signs such as straining, blood in their urine or lack of urine production, vomiting, or vocalizing; this is an emergency. 

 

Identifying and addressing these medical conditions are crucial steps in managing inappropriate urination.

This can become a very severe problem in a short amount of time so having your cat seen by a veterinarian should be your first step. 

They will usually check a urine sample, and sometimes blood tests, x-rays or ultrasound. This can help us diagnose the cause of the problem and decide on the necessary treatments.

Treatments often involve pain medications, antibiotics, diet change which can change the bladder environment and make crystal and stone formation less likely. Anti-anxiety medications may also be considered if they are particularly nervous kitties.

Behavioral Factors and Territorial Marking:

Believe it or not, your cat’s bathroom habits can be influenced by stress. Changes in their environment, like moving house or introducing a new pet, can cause them to act out. They might start peeing outside the litter box as a way of marking their territory or because they are in pain from stress-induced bladder inflammation (cystitis). It’s essential to consider any recent changes in your cat’s life that might be causing them stress.

  • Stressors like changes in the household environment, new pets, or remodeling can trigger a need for territorial assertion through urination. 
  • Signs of territorial marking include spraying on vertical surfaces, urinating outside the litter box intermittently, and marking near doors or windows. 
  • Urinary problems are much more common in households with multiple cats due to territorial problems.
  • Neutering is a fundamental step in addressing territorial marking, as hormonal motivations play a significant role. 

Addressing Litter Box Aversion and Environmental Factors:

Litter box aversion is another common behavioral issue leading to inappropriate urination in cats. Cats are fastidious creatures, preferring clean, accessible litter boxes. Issues like dirty litter, inadequate privacy, or litter box location can deter cats from using them. They also get stressed when they can’t find a suitable bathroom they are comfortable with. Sometimes they hold it for a long time and it leads to bladder inflammation, other times they will be resourceful and find other places to eliminate.

  • Owners should ensure daily scooping of litter boxes, weekly cleaning with mild detergent
  • Multiple boxes per cat, following the “one box per cat, plus one” guideline. 
  • Litter substrate preferences vary, but most cats prefer unscented, fine-grained litter.
  • Environmental factors like noisy appliances or high-traffic areas should be considered when placing litter boxes. 
  • Additionally, addressing conflicts with other pets or negative experiences associated with the litter box is crucial in resolving litter box aversion.
  • Boxes should be 1 and half the length of your cat. For many cats this means we have to be creative and get a box that maybe wasn’t designed as a litter box. 
  • These boxes should also be accessible, have privacy, be cleaned daily, and not be near a lot of activity. 
  • Most cats prefer uncovered boxes, as covered boxes can lead to a “portapotty effect.” 

Trial and error and easy access is key here. Set up options in the house for your cat, such as box location, type of box, and litter, and let them show you their preferences. 

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Management:

Preventing future episodes of inappropriate urination requires a multifaceted approach encompassing environmental enrichment, dietary considerations, and stress management.

  • Environmental enrichment, such as providing opportunities for play, climbing, and resting, can alleviate stress and promote mental well-being in cats. 
  • Dietary modifications, including canned urinary formulas and increased water consumption, may benefit cats prone to feline idiopathic cystitis and urinary issues.
  • Moreover, supplements and medications targeting anxiety, along with pheromone therapies like Feliway, can aid in stress reduction. 
  • Maintaining a consistent routine, minimizing household stressors, and adhering to proper litter box hygiene are essential for managing inappropriate urination long-term.
  • Use enzymatic cleaner over ammonia that smells like urine to them to avoid repeat offenders in the same area. 

Keeping Your Cool:

Finally, remember to take a deep breath and stay calm. Dealing with bathroom issues can be stressful, but getting worked up won’t help anyone. Punishment doesn’t work for cats! Stick to your vet’s advice, make some tweaks to your cat’s environment, and give them lots of love and attention. With time and patience, you’ll get through this together!

Conclusion:

In conclusion, cat urinary problems present multifaceted challenges that require a thorough approach. By understanding the underlying causes, addressing environmental triggers, and seeking appropriate veterinary care when needed, pet parents can effectively manage these issues and ensure their cat’s continued health and happiness. 

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