Blood in cat urine: Causes, home treatments, and when to contact your vet
Blood in cat urine can be worrying so, if you’ve noticed it then it’s normal to feel concerned. Also known as haematuria, blood in cat urine can be a sign of various underlying health issues. This article is design to help you understand the potential causes, home treatments, and when it’s crucial to seek professional veterinary care.
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Potential causes of blood in cat urine
There are several reasons why your cat might have blood in their urine. Some of the most common causes include:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections in the urinary tract can cause inflammation and bleeding. UTIs are more common in older cats and females. Source: cats.com.
- Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): This is a common cause of blood in cat urine and is often linked to stress: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment](https://cats.com/blood-in-cat-urine). It’s an inflammation of the bladder with an unknown cause.
- Bladder Stones or Crystals: Minerals in the urine can form crystals or stones, which can irritate the bladder lining and cause bleeding.
- Bladder or Kidney Stones: Similar to bladder stones, kidney stones can cause blood in the urine and are often associated with pain and difficulty urinating. Source: cats.com.
- Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, such as falls or fights, can cause internal bleeding that shows up in the urine.
- Kidney Disease: Older cats are more prone to kidney disease, which can lead to blood in the urine. Source: cats.com.
- Cancer: Tumors in the bladder or kidneys can cause haematuria: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment](https://cats.com/blood-in-cat-urine).
Home treatments for blood in cat urine
While some causes of blood in cat urine require veterinary intervention, there are a few home remedies that can help manage symptoms and support your cat’s recovery:
- Ensure Fresh Water: Encourage your cat to drink plenty of fresh water to help flush out the urinary system.
- Stress Reduction: Minimize stressors in your cat’s environment, as stress can exacerbate conditions like FIC: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment](https://cats.com/blood-in-cat-urine).
- Dietary Changes: Feeding a diet formulated for urinary health can help prevent the formation of crystals and stones.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relief, such as those recommended by your vet, can help alleviate discomfort.
- Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on your cat’s urination habits and litter box usage to detect any changes or worsening symptoms.
When to contact your local veterinarian
It’s essential to know when it’s time to seek professional veterinary care for your cat. Here are some red flags that warrant an immediate vet visit:
- Complete Urinary Blockage: If your cat is straining to urinate but not producing any urine, this is a medical emergency, especially in male cats.
- Severe Pain or Distress: If your cat is crying, hiding, or showing signs of severe pain, it’s crucial to get them to the vet as soon as possible.
- Frequent Attempts to Urinate: If your cat is frequently trying to urinate but only producing small amounts of blood-tinged urine, this could indicate a serious issue.
- Lethargy or Decreased Appetite: Any significant changes in your cat’s behavior, such as decreased appetite or lethargy, should be evaluated by a vet.
Conclusion
Blood in cat urine can be alarming, but understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care can help ensure your cat receives the appropriate treatment. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to consult with your local veterinarian for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
For more detailed information, you can refer to authoritative sources such as the Cornell Feline Health Center and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Remember, your cat’s health and well-being are our top priorities. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Honnas Veterinary in Austin, TX. We’re here to help!
