Cat Peeing Blood: What’s Wrong?

The sight of blood in your cat’s urine (hematuria) is understandably alarming for any pet owner. It’s a sign that something is amiss in your feline friend’s body, and prompt veterinary attention is crucial to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment. While the initial reaction might be panic, understanding the potential reasons behind this symptom can help you better prepare for a vet visit and provide the best possible care for your beloved cat. This article will delve into the common causes of blood in cat urine, diagnostic procedures, and potential treatment options, empowering you to navigate this challenging situation with greater confidence.

Possible Causes of Hematuria in Cats

Several conditions can lead to blood in a cat’s urine. It’s essential to remember that this symptom can be a manifestation of a wide range of issues, some more serious than others. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common culprits:

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Like humans, cats can develop UTIs, usually caused by bacteria ascending from the external genitalia into the bladder. This is one of the more common reasons, which will cause inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract. UTIs are more common in female cats.

2. Bladder Stones (Uroliths): These mineral formations can develop in the bladder and cause irritation, inflammation, and bleeding as they rub against the bladder wall. The severity of discomfort can vary from mild to extreme.

Calcium Oxalate: A common type of stone that can be difficult to dissolve.

Struvite: These stones are often associated with UTIs and can sometimes be dissolved with dietary changes.

3. Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC): This is a particularly frustrating condition as the exact cause is unknown. FIC is often linked to stress and involves inflammation of the bladder wall. It’s one of the most frequent causes of hematuria in cats, especially younger to middle-aged cats.

4. Urethral Obstruction: This is a life-threatening emergency, particularly in male cats. The urethra, the tube carrying urine from the bladder to the outside, can become blocked by crystals, mucus plugs, or small stones. This prevents the cat from urinating, leading to a build-up of toxins in the body.

5. Kidney Disease: Although less common, kidney disease can sometimes manifest with blood in the urine. This is particularly true in cases of kidney infection or inflammation. Cats with kidney disease can have a reduced ability to concentrate their urine, potentially leading to blood.

6. Trauma: Injury to the urinary tract, such as from a fall or car accident, can cause bleeding.

7. Tumors: In older cats, tumors of the bladder or urinary tract can be a cause of hematuria.

8. Blood Clotting Disorders: Conditions that affect the blood’s ability to clot properly can lead to bleeding in the urinary tract. These disorders can be caused by various factors, including rodenticide poisoning (rat poison) or underlying medical conditions.

9. Certain Medications: Some medications can have side effects that include hematuria. Always inform your veterinarian about all medications your cat is taking.

10. Stress and Anxiety: Cats are very sensitive creatures. Change to their routine, loud noises, or new animals in the house can lead to stress. This stress has been linked to feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), which includes the presence of blood in urine.

Symptoms Associated with Hematuria

Observing your cat closely can provide valuable clues to the underlying cause of the blood in their urine. Here are some common symptoms that may accompany hematuria:

Straining to Urinate (Dysuria): The cat may spend a long time in the litter box, pushing and straining without producing much urine.

Frequent Urination (Pollakiuria): The cat may make frequent trips to the litter box, passing only small amounts of urine each time.

Painful Urination: The cat may cry out or show signs of discomfort while urinating. You might see the cat licking their genital area frequently.

Urinating Outside the Litter Box (Periuria): The cat may start urinating in inappropriate places, such as on furniture or the floor.

Lethargy: The cat may be less active than usual and appear tired or weak.

Loss of Appetite: The cat may refuse to eat or have a decreased appetite.

Vomiting: This can occur, particularly if the underlying condition is causing pain or a build-up of toxins in the body.

Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): The cat may drink more water than usual.

Changes in Urine Color: The urine may be pink, red, or brown.

Blood Clots in Urine: You may notice small clots of blood in the urine.

What to Do If You See Blood in Your Cat’s Urine

The presence of blood in your cat’s urine is a serious matter that requires prompt veterinary attention. Here’s what you should do:

1. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Explain the situation to your veterinarian and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Do not delay seeking veterinary care.

2. Collect a Urine Sample (If Possible): Your veterinarian will likely want to analyze a urine sample. If possible, try to collect a fresh urine sample from your cat. The easiest way to do this is to use a special non-absorbent litter. Your veterinarian can provide you with this litter or you can find it at most pet stores. Transfer the collected urine sample to a clean, sterile container and refrigerate it until your appointment. If you cannot collect a sample, your veterinarian can obtain one during the examination.

3. Observe Your Cat Carefully: Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior, appetite, and urination habits. Note any other symptoms you observe and be prepared to share this information with your veterinarian.

4. Do Not Attempt to Treat Your Cat at Home: Do not give your cat any medications without consulting your veterinarian first. Some medications that are safe for humans can be toxic to cats.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and ask you about your cat’s medical history and symptoms. They will likely recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the hematuria. These tests may include:

Urinalysis: This involves analyzing the urine sample to check for the presence of blood, bacteria, crystals, and other abnormalities. The urine will be evaluated for concentration and acidity.

Urine Culture: This test can identify the specific type of bacteria causing a UTI. The culture is sent to a lab. The lab will also test the sensitivity of the bacterial strain to common antibiotics.

Blood Work: A complete blood count (CBC) and serum chemistry profile can provide information about your cat’s overall health and organ function.

Radiographs (X-rays): X-rays can help identify bladder stones or other abnormalities in the urinary tract. Special contrast dyes may be used to improve the visibility of certain structures.

Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging can provide a more detailed view of the bladder, kidneys, and other organs. Ultrasound can help detect bladder stones, tumors, and other abnormalities that may not be visible on X-rays.

Cystoscopy: In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend a cystoscopy, which involves inserting a small camera into the bladder to visualize the lining and identify any abnormalities.

Treatment

The treatment for hematuria will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:

Antibiotics: UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the results of the urine culture.

Dietary Changes: Certain dietary changes can help dissolve struvite bladder stones or prevent the formation of other types of stones. Prescription diets are often recommended.

Pain Medication: Pain medication can help relieve discomfort associated with urinary tract inflammation or bladder stones.

Increased Water Intake: Encouraging your cat to drink more water can help dilute the urine and reduce irritation of the urinary tract. Provide fresh water at all times and consider using a water fountain to encourage drinking.

Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove bladder stones or tumors that are obstructing the urinary tract.

Stress Management: For cats with FIC, stress management is crucial. This may involve providing a safe and comfortable environment, minimizing changes in routine, and using pheromone diffusers (such as Feliway) to reduce anxiety.

Medications for FIC: In some cases, medications such as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) may be prescribed to help protect the bladder lining.

Fluid Therapy: Intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly in cases of urethral obstruction or kidney disease.

Prevention

While not all causes of hematuria can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your cat’s risk:

Ensure Adequate Water Intake: Encourage your cat to drink plenty of water. Provide fresh water at all times and consider using a water fountain.

Feed a High-Quality Diet: Choose a high-quality cat food that is formulated to support urinary tract health. Avoid feeding excessive amounts of dry food.

Maintain a Clean Litter Box: Clean the litter box regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria.

Reduce Stress: Minimize stress in your cat’s environment by providing a safe and comfortable home, minimizing changes in routine, and using pheromone diffusers.

Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule regular veterinary checkups for your cat to monitor their overall health and detect any potential problems early.

Conclusion

Seeing blood in your cat’s urine is a serious concern that requires immediate veterinary attention. By understanding the potential causes, associated symptoms, and diagnostic and treatment options, you can be better prepared to work with your veterinarian to provide the best possible care for your feline companion. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving the outcome and preventing potentially life-threatening complications. Remember, being a proactive and informed pet owner is the best way to ensure your cat’s health and well-being.