Similar signs can be seen with urinary
stones or obstructions. Your veterinarian can rule out these other
problems.
UTIs are a common problem in dogs but
relatively uncommon in cats. However, inflammation of the urinary tract
in cats may produce UTI-like symptoms, and is a serious health problem.
If your cat exhibits any of the above symptoms, take him to a
veterinarian as soon as possible. Male cats can show the above signs
when their urinary tract is obstructed. This can be life threatening in
a short period of time.
Females have a wider and shorter
urethra than males and are affected by UTIs more often. Males can get
UTIs though, especially when they are intact (non-neutered).
"UTIs are also more likely to affect
older, spayed dogs who experience incontinence," says Dr. Pam Epperson,
AAHA member and owner of the Animal Care Center in West Bountiful, Utah.
"Unfortunately, the cause of UTIs in pets is generally unknown."
Your veterinarian will test your pet's
urine to diagnose a UTI. A urinalysis is the examination of urine for
abnormal substances such as blood, protein, sugar or white blood cells,
which may indicate a UTI. Urine samples can be collected by having the
pet urinate in a container. A sample can also be retrieved from the
bladder by catheterization or by drawing urine directly from the bladder
with a needle.
A bacterial urine culture will be
performed to identify the presence of bacteria, which will confirm that
a UTI is present.
"If the urinalysis indicates that your
pet has a UTI, your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics to treat the
condition," says Dr. Epperson." On a more holistic note, learn how
to keep your pets UTI free and treat without the use of antibiotics
here.
There are some steps you can take at
home to decrease the incidence of UTIs.
