Urinary Tract Infection and Blood in Cats Urine.
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Blood in a cat’s urine is a worrying sight. Also known as ‘hematuria’, it can be a sign of a few different urinary tract conditions which is why it’s important to get your cat checked by a vet. Symptoms to look out for when there’s blood in your cat’s urineYour cat’s urine will usually be red if there’s significant blood in it, although small amounts may be hard to see. Along with this, there are some other symptoms you may notice:
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vet straight away.
Why is there blood in your cat’s urine?If there is blood in your cat’s urine, you will need to contact your vet straight away. Below are some of the reasons why there might be blood in your cat’s urine, but your vet will be able to give you a proper diagnosis.
Many of these conditions are grouped under the general descriptor of ‘feline lower urinary tract disease’ (FLUTD). This broad group of conditions includes bladder stones, feline idiopathic cystitis, urethral obstruction, urinary tract infections and more.
Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC)Feline idiopathic cystitis is a very common cause of blood in cats’ urine. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it isn’t infectious and stress, obesity and dehydration play a role. Some cats are prone to repeated bouts of FIC, so it’s important to discuss prevention with your vet as well as managing any acute flareup.
Urinary tract infectionsUTIs are much less common in cats than in dogs. Most cats that appear to have a UTI have FIC instead. UTIs are more common in senior cats and female felines, but they can sometimes happen in younger cats too. Make sure to contact your vet if you’re concerned.
Bladder stonesBladder stones can cause straining and lead to blood in the urine. Pay attention to unusual vocalization while they are in the litter tray, as this could be a sign of painful urination. Cats with bladder stones are at increased risk of infections and acute blockages.
TraumaInflammation of the kidneys or urinary tract can lead to blood in a cat’s urine.
What’s the treatment for blood in a cat’s urine?Blood in a cat’s urine is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. So, the treatment depends on what’s causing it, which is why it’s so important to get it checked out by a vet. Treatment for bladder stones is very different compared to the treatment needed for feline idiopathic cystitis, for example. Your vet will be able to diagnose your cat and give you a treatment plan.
Can blood in a cat’s urine be prevented?Some conditions that cause blood to show up in their urine are unpreventable. But there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of FLUTD:
1. Offer your cat a well-balanced diet ensuring your cat has a well-balanced diet is super important for their health. The right nutrients in their cat food might help prevent them from developing certain health issues.
2. Make sure they are hydratedYour cat always needs access to clean and fresh water to ensure they’re staying hydrated. They get water from their wet cat food too, so if your cat isn’t a big drinker, this can help to reduce their risk. Cats prefer to drink water away from their food and litter tray, so positioning water bowls appropriately can help. Less concentrated urine is less likely to produce bladder stones and can help to lower the risk of FIC and other conditions.
3. Reduce stress, Stress is a factor that can affect your cat’s physical health and lead to FLUTD. Making sure your cat has a cozy, safe place to rest, a clean litter box to relieve themselves (you should have as many litter trays as you have cats, plus one extra), a space to play stimulating cat games, and a clean place to eat are all factors that reduce cat anxiety and stress.
If you’re concerned about your cat, make sure to contact your vet straight away. It’s not a good idea to assume your cat’s condition will improve on its own if there’s blood in their urine. You’ll need a vet’s professional opinion
Why is there blood in your cat’s urine?If there is blood in your cat’s urine, you will need to contact your vet straight away. Below are some of the reasons why there might be blood in your cat’s urine, but your vet will be able to give you a proper diagnosis.
Many of these conditions are grouped under the general descriptor of ‘feline lower urinary tract disease’ (FLUTD). This broad group of conditions includes bladder stones, feline idiopathic cystitis, urethral obstruction, urinary tract infections and more.
Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC)Feline idiopathic cystitis is a very common cause of blood in cats’ urine. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it isn’t infectious and stress, obesity and dehydration play a role. Some cats are prone to repeated bouts of FIC, so it’s important to discuss prevention with your vet as well as managing any acute flareup.
Urinary tract infectionsUTIs are much less common in cats than in dogs. Most cats that appear to have a UTI have FIC instead. UTIs are more common in senior cats and female felines, but they can sometimes happen in younger cats too. Make sure to contact your vet if you’re concerned.
Bladder stonesBladder stones can cause straining and lead to blood in the urine. Pay attention to unusual vocalization while they are in the litter tray, as this could be a sign of painful urination. Cats with bladder stones are at increased risk of infections and acute blockages.
TraumaInflammation of the kidneys or urinary tract can lead to blood in a cat’s urine.
What’s the treatment for blood in a cat’s urine?Blood in a cat’s urine is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. So, the treatment depends on what’s causing it, which is why it’s so important to get it checked out by a vet. Treatment for bladder stones is very different compared to the treatment needed for feline idiopathic cystitis, for example. Your vet will be able to diagnose your cat and give you a treatment plan.
Can blood in a cat’s urine be prevented?Some conditions that cause blood to show up in their urine are unpreventable. But there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of FLUTD:
1. Offer your cat a well-balanced diet ensuring your cat has a well-balanced diet is super important for their health. The right nutrients in their cat food might help prevent them from developing certain health issues.
2. Make sure they are hydratedYour cat always needs access to clean and fresh water to ensure they’re staying hydrated. They get water from their wet cat food too, so if your cat isn’t a big drinker, this can help to reduce their risk. Cats prefer to drink water away from their food and litter tray, so positioning water bowls appropriately can help. Less concentrated urine is less likely to produce bladder stones and can help to lower the risk of FIC and other conditions.
3. Reduce stress, Stress is a factor that can affect your cat’s physical health and lead to FLUTD. Making sure your cat has a cozy, safe place to rest, a clean litter box to relieve themselves (you should have as many litter trays as you have cats, plus one extra), a space to play stimulating cat games, and a clean place to eat are all factors that reduce cat anxiety and stress.
If you’re concerned about your cat, make sure to contact your vet straight away. It’s not a good idea to assume your cat’s condition will improve on its own if there’s blood in their urine. You’ll need a vet’s professional opinion
Diagnosing tapeworm infection in dogs
Diagnosing tapeworm infection in dogs, Your vet might ask for a dog stool sample. They will often look at the sample under a microscope, and may be able to see tapeworm eggs or segments, confirming the diagnosis.
It’s always important to contact your vet if you’re concerned so you can get the right treatment for tapeworm in dogs.
Tapeworm treatment in dogs, The good news is that tapeworm is usually easy to treat with deworming medication. There are a number of options available, including tablets or spot-ons, and your vet will advise you on the best choice for your dog.
It’s important to get tapeworm treated otherwise it can lead to health issues and an infected dog also risks contaminating the environment, and so continuing the lifecycle.
How to prevent tapeworm in dogs-Tapeworm in dogs is relatively common, so it is important to take steps to try and prevent it. Here are some simple precautions you can take:
Flea prevention medication-The flea and tapeworm lifecycles are closely linked, so controlling fleas helps to prevent tapeworm infestation. There are lots of options available, including tablets, spot-ons or sprays.
Watch your dog closelyTapeworm can be spread by eating infected prey (mainly rabbits and other rodents), so make sure they don’t scavenge when out and about.
Clean up after your pet-Tapeworm is spread by swallowing an infected flea or rodent but as a responsible owner, it is important to clear up your dog’s poop.
Start a de-worming planThis should be in place from when your dog is a puppy. It’s best to speak to your vet to tailor a plan to your dog’s individual requirements.
My dog has tapeworm, can I get them?Although rare, it is possible for a human to get tapeworm from their dog. This can either be by direct transmission or by accidentally eating an infected flea.
Can tapeworms be passed from cat to dog?Tapeworm cannot be directly passed from dog to cat (or any other pet). In order to be infected by tapeworm, they have to ingest what is known as an intermediate host - in other words the host flea (or rodent). So, if a dog or cat is infected, they won’t pass tapeworm directly to another pet. However, if 2 dogs (or cats) are grooming each other, they could ingest an infected flea from each other’s fur.
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It’s always important to contact your vet if you’re concerned so you can get the right treatment for tapeworm in dogs.
Tapeworm treatment in dogs, The good news is that tapeworm is usually easy to treat with deworming medication. There are a number of options available, including tablets or spot-ons, and your vet will advise you on the best choice for your dog.
It’s important to get tapeworm treated otherwise it can lead to health issues and an infected dog also risks contaminating the environment, and so continuing the lifecycle.
How to prevent tapeworm in dogs-Tapeworm in dogs is relatively common, so it is important to take steps to try and prevent it. Here are some simple precautions you can take:
Flea prevention medication-The flea and tapeworm lifecycles are closely linked, so controlling fleas helps to prevent tapeworm infestation. There are lots of options available, including tablets, spot-ons or sprays.
Watch your dog closelyTapeworm can be spread by eating infected prey (mainly rabbits and other rodents), so make sure they don’t scavenge when out and about.
Clean up after your pet-Tapeworm is spread by swallowing an infected flea or rodent but as a responsible owner, it is important to clear up your dog’s poop.
Start a de-worming planThis should be in place from when your dog is a puppy. It’s best to speak to your vet to tailor a plan to your dog’s individual requirements.
My dog has tapeworm, can I get them?Although rare, it is possible for a human to get tapeworm from their dog. This can either be by direct transmission or by accidentally eating an infected flea.
Can tapeworms be passed from cat to dog?Tapeworm cannot be directly passed from dog to cat (or any other pet). In order to be infected by tapeworm, they have to ingest what is known as an intermediate host - in other words the host flea (or rodent). So, if a dog or cat is infected, they won’t pass tapeworm directly to another pet. However, if 2 dogs (or cats) are grooming each other, they could ingest an infected flea from each other’s fur.
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Sensitive Skin in Your Pets
Are you worried that your dog is suffering from sensitive skin? Both genetic factors and environmental factors can cause skin sensitivity in dogs – and identifying the reason behind your dog’s skin problems will make finding the correct treatment much easier.
Below we’ve explained how to spot the symptoms of sensitive skin, what causes it, and some of the ways you can help to keep your dog’s skin healthy. The signs of sensitive skin in dogsYour dog’s appearance is one the most obvious indicators of overall wellbeing. Look out for these common signs of skin sensitivity:
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How can nutrition help your dog's sensitive skin issues? A specially-formulated food like PURINA® PRO PLAN® Sensitive Skin & Stomach can help support your dog’s sensitive skin. Developed by our vets and nutritionists to promote healthy skin and coat, the diet contains skin-targeting nutrients such as amino acids, essentially fatty acids, B vitamins and zinc. It is also made with selected sources of protein to help reduce possible skin reactions associated with food sensitivity. 4 tips to treat sensitive skin in dogs
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Understanding your senior cat's sleeping patterns
As your cat ages, their sleep patterns might change. Older cats may sleep more, with their energy levels simply decreasing with age. Other times, senior cats might sleep more during the day, saving their energy for evenings and nighttime explorations. While you might find this a little disruptive, it's a natural shift in their sleep cycle. Learn how to understand these sleeping patterns and create a cozy sleep haven to ensure they get the rest they need.
Common Changes in Older Cats' Sleep Patterns How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep Ever wondered how long cats sleep for? It's a question many cat owners ponder, especially as their feline companions seem to spend a lot of time napping. Cats do manage to fit in a lot of quality catnaps, but this can be especially noticeable as cats age. Older cats can sleep anywhere from 16 to 20 hours a day, compared to the 12-15 hours of adult cats. This increased need for sleep is attributed to decreased energy levels and a more relaxed lifestyle.
Some maintain their nighttime activity levels but sleep most of the day to conserve that nocturnal energy. So, if your senior cat seems to be sleeping more than usual, or their sleep patterns change, it's likely nothing to worry about. However, if you're ever concerned about a sudden change in your cat's sleep patterns, especially if you see other symptoms, it's always best to consult your vet.
Senior Cat Sleep-Wake Cycles Another common change is a shift in sleep-wake cycles. While cats are crepuscular, in other words more active at dawn and dusk, older cats may become more active at night and sleep more during the day. This can sometimes be disruptive for owners, especially in the case of indoor cats, but it's important to remember it's a natural shift and rarely a cause for concern.
If you have a cat who has constant access to the great outdoors, you might not notice that they are more active at night, just noticing that they are sleeping more during the day. If you think this is the case, you could monitor the cat flap with a webcam to get an idea of their nighttime wanderings.
Factors Affecting Sleep in Older Cats Several factors can influence your older cat's sleep quality:
Health Concerns Related to Sleep DisturbancesWhile increased sleep is normal for older cats, significant and/or sudden changes in sleep patterns can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.
Signs to watch for include excessive vocalization at night, restlessness, pacing, difficulty settling, or changes in litter box habits or loss of toilet training.
If you notice any concerning changes in your cat's sleep patterns, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep in Older Cats Ideal Sleeping Areas and Bedding for Older Cats Provide multiple, easily accessible sleeping areas throughout the house in places where your cat won’t be disturbed. These should be at a variety of heights and places your cat enjoys hanging out (such as a sunny window ledge) but you need to ensure easy access (so consider using ramps etc). Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep.
Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Explore other top tips for choosing the right cat bed with Purina.
Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep.
Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Explore other top tips for choosing the right cat bed with Purina.
Managing Noise and DisturbancesMinimise disruptions by keeping loud activities to a minimum. Make sure you give your cat quiet places to sleep so they can access peace and quiet.
Establishing a RoutineWhile understanding that it is natural for cats to be active in the evenings and the early part of the night, you can help encourage a nighttime sleep schedule with regular feeding times and playtime before bed. Creating a consistent routine can be helpful for promoting healthy sleep in older cats. Here are things you can think about to help with routine:
Set regular feeding timesFeed your cat at consistent times throughout the day, using the most suitable senior cat food for your companion, with the last meal being close to bedtime. This helps regulate their digestive system and toileting needs, and helps prepare them for a night of sleep.
Schedule playtimeEngage your cat in gentle playtime before bedtime. This helps burn off some energy and promotes relaxation. Keep play sessions short and focused on low-impact activities they can manage, like feather wand toys or puzzle feeders.
Maintain a consistent sleep environmentIf you have an indoor cat, keep their sleeping areas quiet and undisturbed throughout the night.
Minimise disruptionsConsistency is key, so try to maintain a predictable nighttime routine that allows your cat to settle comfortably for sleep. If you know you are likely to need to get up in the middle of the night, try to not disturb your cat.
By implementing these tips and establishing a consistent routine, you can help encourage your older cat to keep to their regular routine as they age, and promote restful sleep for a happier and healthier cat.
Conclusion By understanding the changes in your ageing cat's sleep habits and creating a comfortable sleep environment, you can ensure your senior cat gets the rest they need to live a happy and healthy life. Remember, any significant changes in sleep patterns warrant a visit to the veterinarian to ensure your cat's wellbeing.
Common Changes in Older Cats' Sleep Patterns How Many Hours Do Cats Sleep Ever wondered how long cats sleep for? It's a question many cat owners ponder, especially as their feline companions seem to spend a lot of time napping. Cats do manage to fit in a lot of quality catnaps, but this can be especially noticeable as cats age. Older cats can sleep anywhere from 16 to 20 hours a day, compared to the 12-15 hours of adult cats. This increased need for sleep is attributed to decreased energy levels and a more relaxed lifestyle.
Some maintain their nighttime activity levels but sleep most of the day to conserve that nocturnal energy. So, if your senior cat seems to be sleeping more than usual, or their sleep patterns change, it's likely nothing to worry about. However, if you're ever concerned about a sudden change in your cat's sleep patterns, especially if you see other symptoms, it's always best to consult your vet.
Senior Cat Sleep-Wake Cycles Another common change is a shift in sleep-wake cycles. While cats are crepuscular, in other words more active at dawn and dusk, older cats may become more active at night and sleep more during the day. This can sometimes be disruptive for owners, especially in the case of indoor cats, but it's important to remember it's a natural shift and rarely a cause for concern.
If you have a cat who has constant access to the great outdoors, you might not notice that they are more active at night, just noticing that they are sleeping more during the day. If you think this is the case, you could monitor the cat flap with a webcam to get an idea of their nighttime wanderings.
Factors Affecting Sleep in Older Cats Several factors can influence your older cat's sleep quality:
- Environmental Factors and Comfort
- Senior cat care: Health Issues Impacting Sleep
Health Concerns Related to Sleep DisturbancesWhile increased sleep is normal for older cats, significant and/or sudden changes in sleep patterns can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.
Signs to watch for include excessive vocalization at night, restlessness, pacing, difficulty settling, or changes in litter box habits or loss of toilet training.
If you notice any concerning changes in your cat's sleep patterns, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep in Older Cats Ideal Sleeping Areas and Bedding for Older Cats Provide multiple, easily accessible sleeping areas throughout the house in places where your cat won’t be disturbed. These should be at a variety of heights and places your cat enjoys hanging out (such as a sunny window ledge) but you need to ensure easy access (so consider using ramps etc). Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep.
Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Explore other top tips for choosing the right cat bed with Purina.
Sometimes if a cat is feeling stiff or a bit sore, they will sleep in a less-favoured spot that they can access easily and without pain, but this might be somewhere uncomfortable or somewhere they can’t relax and get good quality sleep.
Choose soft, supportive bedding that allows for easy stretching and accommodates any stiffness. Explore other top tips for choosing the right cat bed with Purina.
Managing Noise and DisturbancesMinimise disruptions by keeping loud activities to a minimum. Make sure you give your cat quiet places to sleep so they can access peace and quiet.
Establishing a RoutineWhile understanding that it is natural for cats to be active in the evenings and the early part of the night, you can help encourage a nighttime sleep schedule with regular feeding times and playtime before bed. Creating a consistent routine can be helpful for promoting healthy sleep in older cats. Here are things you can think about to help with routine:
Set regular feeding timesFeed your cat at consistent times throughout the day, using the most suitable senior cat food for your companion, with the last meal being close to bedtime. This helps regulate their digestive system and toileting needs, and helps prepare them for a night of sleep.
Schedule playtimeEngage your cat in gentle playtime before bedtime. This helps burn off some energy and promotes relaxation. Keep play sessions short and focused on low-impact activities they can manage, like feather wand toys or puzzle feeders.
Maintain a consistent sleep environmentIf you have an indoor cat, keep their sleeping areas quiet and undisturbed throughout the night.
Minimise disruptionsConsistency is key, so try to maintain a predictable nighttime routine that allows your cat to settle comfortably for sleep. If you know you are likely to need to get up in the middle of the night, try to not disturb your cat.
By implementing these tips and establishing a consistent routine, you can help encourage your older cat to keep to their regular routine as they age, and promote restful sleep for a happier and healthier cat.
Conclusion By understanding the changes in your ageing cat's sleep habits and creating a comfortable sleep environment, you can ensure your senior cat gets the rest they need to live a happy and healthy life. Remember, any significant changes in sleep patterns warrant a visit to the veterinarian to ensure your cat's wellbeing.
