Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in cats and can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, urinary crystals, and bladder stones. UTIs can cause discomfort and pain for your feline friend, and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health issues. Here are some signs of UTI in cats that you should look out for:

1. Frequent Urination

If your cat uses the litter box more often than usual or seems to be straining to urinate, it could be a sign of a UTI. You may also notice that your cat only produces small amounts of urine at a time.

2. Blood in Urine

If you notice blood in your cat's urine or the urine has a pinkish tint, it could be a sign of a UTI. Blood in urine can also be a sign of more serious health issues, so getting your cat to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis is important.

3. Peeing Outside the Litter Box

A cat that suddenly starts urinating outside the litter box may be exhibiting signs of a UTI. Cats with UTIs may associate urination pain with the litter box and avoid it altogether.

4. Excessive Licking of Genitals

If you notice your cat licking its genital area more than usual, it could be a sign of discomfort caused by a UTI. Cats with UTIs may also lick their genital area after urinating.

5. Foul-Smelling Urine

Cats with a strong and foul urine odor may have a UTI. The smell may be particularly strong if the infection is caused by bacteria.

6. Loss of Appetite

Cats with UTIs may lose their appetite or become lethargic due to the discomfort and pain caused by the infection. If your cat is not eating or drinking as much as usual, it could be a sign of a UTI.

7. Vomiting

Often, a cat with a UTI may vomit due to the discomfort caused by the infection. If your cat is vomiting, it's important to get them to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

8. Drinking More Water Than Usual

Your cat may drink more water than usual if it is experiencing discomfort from a UTI. Drinking more water can help your cat control the pain from the urinary tract infection.

Schedule an Appointment with Pinnacle Vet Clinic

If you notice any of these signs of UTI in your cat, it's important to schedule a veterinary appointment as soon as possible. At Pinnacle Vet Clinic, we will perform a physical exam and may take a urine sample to determine if your cat has a UTI. If your cat is diagnosed with a UTI, we can prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. UTIs can be easily treated with antibiotics if caught early, but if left untreated, they can lead to more serious health issues such as kidney disease or bladder infections. We may also recommend changes to your cat's diet or litter box habits to prevent future infections.

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