Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
🔎 Find by symptom
About this condition
A group of conditions affecting the bladder and urethra, including inflammation, uroliths, and obstruction. Frequent urination and blood in the urine are common; urethral obstruction in male cats is a life-threatening emergency.
Common symptoms
- Frequent trips to the litter box with little urine produced
- Blood in the urine
- Crying or vocalizing during urination
- Excessive grooming or attention to the lower abdomen
Common causes
- Idiopathic cystitis (stress-related)
- Uroliths (struvite, calcium oxalate, etc.)
- Insufficient water intake
- Obesity or a diet heavy in dry food
Prevention (husbandry & daily care)
Encourage water intake through fountains and wet food, maintain clean litter boxes, prevent obesity, and reduce stress in multi-cat households.
Related species guide
→ Browse the species guide for this animalWhen to see a vet
See a vet as soon as possibleWhat treatment does a vet provide?
Veterinarians use ultrasound and urinalysis to identify the cause. Urethral obstruction is relieved with a catheter. Uroliths may be managed through dietary modification or, in some cases, surgery.
Related columns
- Cat End-of-Life & Hospice Care Guide | Pain Management, Home Nursing & Euthanasia Decision Criteria
- Community Cat & TNR Activity Guide: Procedures for Trapping, Neutering, and Return, and How to Approach It in Your Area
- A Guide to Cat Sensory Organs | Understanding Vision, Hearing, Smell, and Whiskers and How to Apply Them to Pet Care
- How to Read Cat Food Labels | Understanding Ingredients, Nutritional Information, and Quality Assessment
Other conditions in this animal
Feline Upper Respiratory InfectionConsider a vet within a few daysChronic Kidney DiseaseSee a vet as soon as possibleFeline Leukemia Virus InfectionSee a vet as soon as possibleFeline Immunodeficiency Virus InfectionSee a vet as soon as possibleFeline PanleukopeniaSee a vet as soon as possiblePeriodontal DiseaseConsider a vet within a few daysHairball (Trichobezoar)Monitor; see a vet if it worsensDiabetes MellitusSee a vet as soon as possibleHyperthyroidismConsider a vet within a few daysEar Mite InfestationMonitor; see a vet if it worsensDermatophytosis (Ringworm)Consider a vet within a few days