Hematuria (Blood in Urine) in Cats

Cats

Overview of Bloody Urine in Cats

Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the cat's urine. It may be gross (visible to the naked eye) or microscopic.

Below is an overview of causes, diagnosis and treatment of bloody urine in cats followed by detailed in-depth information about this condition. 

Possible causes of hematuria in cats include:

Bacterial infections of the urinary and genital tracts such as cystitis (bladder infection) or vaginitis

Cancer of the urinary or genital tracts

Calculi (stones) in the urinary tract

Congenital urinary tract abnormalities (those present at birth)

Rare parasites of the urinary tract

Clotting (bleeding) disorders including anti-coagulant rat poison (warfarin)

Trauma

Medication-induced (e.g., cystitis caused by cyclophosphamide, a drug used to treat some types of cancer and immune-mediated diseases)

Benign idiopathic ("of unknown cause") hematuria originating from the kidney

The effect of hematuria on the pet may range from no obvious effect to severe. Severe bleeding into the urinary tract may cause the cat to become anemic and may cause weakness or collapse.

Other symptoms that commonly accompany hematuria include:

Painful or difficult urination

Straining to urinate

Frequent passage of small amounts of urine

Abdominal pain

You should have your pet examined by your veterinarian if you observe hematuria or any of these other symptoms.

Diagnosis of Hematuria in Cats

Your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following tests to evaluate your pet for hematuria:

Urinalysis

Urine culture and sensitivity

Microscopic examination of vaginal smears

Complete blood count

Serum biochemistry tests

Clotting profile including platelet count

Plain abdominal X-rays

Contrast dye X-ray studies

Abdominal ultrasound examination

Treatment of Hematuria in Cats

Treatment depends upon the diagnosis. Your veterinarian may prescribe one or more of the following treatments for your cat:

Antibiotics for possible bacterial infection of the urinary or genital tracts

Dietary changes for certain types of calculi (stones)

Fluid therapy for dehydration

Vitamin K for consumption of anti-coagulant rat poison

Home Care

The presence of blood in the urine (hematuria) is abnormal. If you observe hematuria, you should take your cat to your veterinarian for evaluation.

Observe your cat closely for any of the associated clinical signs such as pain or straining when urinating. If possible, obtain a voided (free-catch) urine sample from your pet and take it with you when you visit your veterinarian.

Administer all prescribed medications as directed by your veterinarian. Promptly bring any unexpected changes in your pet's condition to the attention of your veterinarian. Evaluate your pet's environment for the presence of possible toxins. (specifically, anti-coagulant rat poison).

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  Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the urine. It may be gross (visible to the naked eye) or microscopic.

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  Sample of stones removed from the urinary bladder.