Signs Your Cat Has a Bladder Infection

Felines are prone to urinary and bladder infections, and left untreated, they can be incredibly dangerous and painful for your pet.   Almost ten percent of vet visits for cats and dogs alike are related to urinary problems, and learning how to tell when your cat may have a bladder infection is essential.  Here are some symptoms to watch for in your cat.

One thing you should definitely look for is any sign that urinating has become painful for your animal.  Many cats will meow or seem agitated while urinating whenever a bladder infection is present.  You will also want to pay attention to whether your cat is experiencing a change in their usual urinary habits.  Is your cat peeing all the time or not at all?  These are both red flags that require an immediate visit to the vet.

Other symptoms that warrant a visit to the vet include excessive genital licking and blood in the urine.  These are both common urinary tract infection symptoms.  If your cat has begun urinating outside of the litter box, this is often a sign of a bladder or urinary tract infection.  This is because painful urination causes your pet to associate the litter box with pain.... so they start avoiding it.

If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your veterinarian right away.  Urinary problems can often be treated successfully, but early care is essential for a successful cure.