Signs of Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs & Cats
If you’ve ever had a urinary tract infection, you know how uncomfortable it can be. It’s the same for pets. Cat urinary infections are not uncommon, and dogs can get UTIs, too. Knowing the signs of urinary tract infection in dogs or cat urinary tract infection symptoms, and how to get treatment, is essential for pet owners. Remember, pets speak to us through their actions and behaviors. While the signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection are largely similar between cats and dogs, here’s what to watch for and the best courses of action:
Cat Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms
- Inability to urinate/straining to urinate
- Reduced urine output
- Loss of bladder control
- Urinating more than usual
- Frequent trips to the litterbox
- Urinating outside of the litter box
- Avoidance or fear of litter box
- Strong smell in urine
- Crying or whining during urination
- Blood in urine
How to Treat Urinary Tract Infection in Cats
Problems with the urinary tract in cats can be serious, especially for male cats. If your cat is exhibiting symptoms of a UTI, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. The underlying cause will dictate which course of treatment is prescribed. In addition to the appropriate medications to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of urinary tract infections, your veterinarian will often include some additional recommendations as part of the treatment plan for your pet. These can include:
- Increasing water consumption
- Modified diet
- Urinary acidifiers
- Fluid therapy
Signs of Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs
- Straining to urinate
- Increased frequency of urination
- Reduced quantity of urine
- Blood in urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Accidents inside the home
How to Treat Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs
If your dog is showing signs or symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it’s time for a trip to the vet. Your veterinarian will take a sterile sample of urine from your dog for testing to confirm the presence of a UTI. If the dog has a urinary tract infection, treatment will be necessary. Antibiotics are the most common treatment for bladder infections in dogs. Depending on the severity and underlying cause of your pet’s bladder infection, anti-inflammatory medications or pain killers might also be prescribed, along with any additional recommendations from your vet.
To sum up, if your cat or dog is having trouble urinating or exhibiting other signs or symptoms of urinary tract infection, make an appointment to see the vet as soon as possible.
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