Dysuria (Trouble Urinating) in Cats

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Dysuria (Trouble Urinating) in Cats

By: Dr. Mary Anna Labato

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Section: Overview

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Dysuria is defined as difficult or painful urination. It is characterized by straining to urinate, frequent attempts at urination, and evidence of discomfort when urinating. Discomfort may be demonstrated by crying out during urination, excessive licking at the urogenital region or turning and looking at the area.

What To Watch For

Straining to urinate

Frequent attempts at urination

Blood in the urine (hematuria)

Excessive licking at the urogenital area

Passage of only small amounts of urine

Vocalization when attempting to urinate

Inappropriately urinating (in the house)

Unproductive urination (no urine passed)

Causes

Causes of dysuria include a number of different conditions including:

Urinary tract infection

A stone in the urethra

Bladder stones

Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)

Masses (tumors) in the blad

der or urethra

Stricture (narrowed area within the urogenital tract)

A neurologic problem resulting in increased urethral tone (dyssynergia) or decreased bladder tone (atony)

Treatment

Treatment will depend upon the underlying cause of the problem. It may require:

Antibiotics to treat infections

Surgery to treat stones or a stricture

An anti-inflammatory dose of steroids to treat inflammation

Home Care

Administer as directed any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. Observe your cat's urination patterns. Make sure urine is being passed in adequate amounts. Observe your cat's general activity level, appetite and attitude.

Make sure your cat has plenty of water and has frequent opportunities to urinate. Follow dietary recommendations of your veterinarian.

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