Dear VetBabble,
I have a 12-year-old cat who has recently become very skinny, has bloody urine, and doesn’t eat much. I suspect she has a urinary tract infection. Should I take her to a vet with a fresh urine sample for examination and treatment?
Understanding the Underlying Concerns for Senior Cats and Urinary Issues
It is not uncommon for older cats to experience changes in their health, and urinary issues are among the most common concerns for pet owners. While it’s important to have your cat evaluated by a vet whenever you notice changes in their behavior or bodily functions, addressing underlying concerns through education can help you keep a watchful eye on your feline friend’s wellbeing. In this article, we will discuss common urinary issues and their causes, as well as provide information on veterinary visits and urine sampling for optimal health assessment.
Causes of Bloody Urine and Weight Loss in Cats
In your case, the presence of bloody urine, weight loss, and decreased appetite in your senior cat might be signs of urinary tract infection (UTI). However, there could also be other factors contributing to these symptoms:
Kidney Disease – Kidney disease is a common issue in older cats, and it can cause symptoms such as weight loss and changes in urination. You can learn more about the symptoms and treatment options of kidney disease in cats by reading our informative article on Kidney Disease in Cats.
Urinary Obstruction (FLUTD) – Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) can affect cats of any age but is more prevalent among middle-aged and overweight cats. The condition may cause an inability to urinate which can lead to a urinary blockage, bloody urine, or frequent attempts to urinate. To understand more about FLUTD and why your cat might have difficulty urinating, check out our article about Why Can’t My Cat Pee?
Cystitis – Cystitis is another cause of urinary issues in cats, which can lead to the presence of blood in urine. It is important to differentiate whether bloody urine is caused by cystitis or a urinary tract infection as each has its treatment plan. You can discover more about cystitis in our article: If There’s Blood in your Dog’s Urine it Could be Cystitis.
When to Visit the Vet and Preparing a Urine Sample
Given the symptoms you have described, including weight loss, bloody urine, and decreased appetite, it is crucial to have your cat evaluated by your veterinarian to diagnose her health issue accurately. Since you suspect she may be suffering from a urinary infection or another similar condition, providing your veterinarian with a fresh urine sample can help save time and allow for a more precise assessment. Collecting a urine sample from your cat may not always be an easy task, but your veterinarian can provide guidance or alternative methods if necessary.
It would also be a good idea to monitor your cat’s drinking habits and make mental notes of any changes you notice. Increased water intake could indicate a health issue that requires veterinary attention. Read our article on Why Does My Cat Drink More Water? if you are interested in learning more about the possible reasons behind your cat’s drinking behavior.
In conclusion, it is crucial to schedule a veterinary visit for your cat to address her weight loss, bloody urine, and decreased appetite. Providing a fresh urine sample can help save time and provide your veterinarian with valuable information needed for proper diagnosis. It is essential to understand the potential causes of urinary issues and monitor your cat’s behavior and health regularly to ensure they receive the necessary care and treatment for a happy, healthy life.
