Cat Urinary Tract Health - The Truth About Urinary Tract Infection in Cats

By Laura Ramirez

As a loving pet owner, cat urinary tract health is a subject you'll want to learn more about because it is common for cats to have bladder-related problems. In this article, you'll learn more than just how to spot a urinary tract infection, you'll learn how to prevent one in the first place.

Urinary tract infections in cats (UTI for short) are usually caused by bacteria or bladder stones. This condition can be excruciatingly painful and if left untreated, can spread to the kidneys, making your cat very sick and endangering her life.

Since the only way for your cat to let you know something is wrong is through her actions, watch for uncharacteristic behaviors. Your cat might have a UTI if she:

• Licks her genitals for an unusually long time
  
• Refuses to go in her litter box
  
• Refuses to eat or drink

More obvious signs that your cat has a UTI are difficulty urinating, going more frequently or blood or crystals in her urine. You can check to see if your pet has a full and painful bladder by gently pressing your fingers against your cat's stomach and feeling for the bladder. If she howls in pain, take her to the vet.

Standard Treatment for Urinary Tract Infection in Cats

If your pet has a UTI, the vet will prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. Although drugs will work, the problem is that cats are very sensitive and just like in humans, antibiotics may have adverse effects. You should also be aware that drugs do not heal the condition that caused the infection in the first place.

Preventative Measures Restore Cat Urinary Tract Health

Rather than drugs, consider herbal remedies which are just as effective. Even though these remedies are natural, they work like antibiotics to eliminate bacteria and soothe inflammation. Better yet, natural preparations create a healthy climate in the bladder that discourages the growth of bacteria. Best of all, once your cat has completely recovered, you can continue to use this remedy to maintain a healthy balance in the bladder, so your fluffy feline friend will never have to suffer like this again.

To learn more about natural remedies that support cat urinary tract health, go to http://www.pet-ut-health.com Laura Ramirez is the author of the award-winning parenting book, Keepers of the Children: Native American Wisdom and Parenting. She is the publisher of Family Matters Parenting Magazine and has been a pet lover all her life.