Cats are notoriously private pets, especially when something’s wrong. If your feline companion is spending more time in the litter box, straining to go, or urinating outside their usual spots, they may be experiencing a cat urinary issue. These health problems are more common than you might think, and they can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Club Hill Animal Clinic uses urinalysis as a simple, powerful diagnostic test that can pinpoint what’s going on inside your cat’s body.

Signs That Your Cat Has a Urinary Problem

A cat's behavior can speak volumes when it comes to the litter box. Your cat may be suffering from a urinary condition if they show symptoms like:

• Straining in the litter box
• Frequent or prolonged attempts to urinate
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Blood in the urine
• Excessive licking of the genital area
• Changes in mood, appetite, or energy
• Crying or vocalizing during urination

While any of these symptoms should prompt a call to the vet, if your cat is not urinating at all or straining hard for only a little urine, call a veterinarian immediately. These can be signs of a feline urinary blockage, which is life-threatening in as little as 48 hours.

Urinary Conditions in Cats

These are a few urinary conditions that may be the cause of your feline pet’s symptoms.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
FLUTD is an umbrella term that includes several conditions, such as inflammation, crystals, or stress-related flare-ups, that affect the bladder and urethra.

Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC)
FIC causes painful inflammation of the bladder without infection. It’s thought to be related to stress but is still being studied.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs most often occur in older female cats or those with specific medical conditions, causing pain, blood in the urine, and urgency.

Urinary Blockage
Crystals or bladder stones can irritate the urinary tract or block it entirely, especially in male cats. Urinary blockages are very dangerous for cats. 

How Urinalysis Can Diagnose the Problem

When your cat presents with urinary symptoms, a urinalysis is often the first (and most important) test a veterinarian will run. Why? A urinalysis can detect signs of crystals, infections, and inflammation, as well as markers of kidney function and certain diseases. In many cases, the urinalysis alone gives a veterinary team clear direction for treatment. In certain cases, the vet may recommend additional diagnostics like bloodwork or imaging. Something to remember is that treatment can be more important than finding the exact cause of a specific symptom, as feline urinary issues often share symptoms. 

In-House Testing for Cat Urinary Conditions in Garland, TX

Urinary issues in cats can come on quickly, but they’re also highly treatable when diagnosed early. A simple feline urinalysis can provide vital answers that lead to relief and long-term health. Club Hill Animal Clinic will guide your cat through diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of feline urinary issues in Garland and for nearby areas like Mesquite and Rowlett. Notice signs of a cat urinary problem? Contact us today for an urgent appointment.