Dysuria (Trouble Urinating) in Cats

Cats

Overview of Dysuria (Trouble Urinating) in Cats

Dysuria is defined as difficult or painful urination in cats. It is characterized by straining to urinate, frequent attempts at urination, and evidence of discomfort when urinating.

Discomfort may be demonstrated by crying out during urination, excessive licking at the urogenital region or turning and looking at the area. Many pet owners misinterpret the signs of straining to urinate for constipation.

What To Watch For

Straining to urinate

Frequent attempts at urination

Blood in the urine (hematuria)

Excessive licking at the urogenital area

Passage of only small amounts of urine

Vocalization when attempting to urinate

Inappropriately urinating (in the house)

Unproductive urination (no urine passed)

Causes of Trouble Urinating in Cats

Causes of dysuria include a number of different conditions including:

Urinary tract infection

A stone in the urethra

Bladder stones

Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)

Masses (tumors) in the bladder or urethra

Stricture (narrowed area within the urogenital tract)

A neurologic problem resulting in increased urethral tone (dyssynergia) or decreased bladder tone (atony)

Treatment of Dysuria in Cats

Treatment will depend upon the underlying cause of the problem. It may require:

Antibiotics to treat infections

Surgery to treat stones or a stricture

An anti-inflammatory dose of steroids to treat inflammation

Home Care

Administer as directed any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Observe your cat's urination patterns. Make sure urine is being passed in adequate amounts. Observe your cat's general activity level, appetite and attitude.

Make sure your cat has plenty of water and has frequent opportunities to urinate. Follow dietary recommendations of your veterinarian.

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  This is an x-ray of a cat after a special dye was injected into the urinary bladder. The urinary catheter is still in place. This test is used to determine if the bladder is ruptured or if certain stones are present.