A bladder infection (=cystitis) in cats can have many causes and can be very painful. In contrast to a urinary tract infection, in which the bladder, kidneys and urinary tract are affected, a bladder infection only affects the bladder. Find out everything you need to know about symptoms, medication, home remedies, healing time and diet.
Symptoms of bladder infection in cats
Many cats have to deal with a bladder infection at least once during their lifetime, as there are many different causes that can lead to this condition. If you suspect that your cat is suffering from cystitis, a visit tothe vet is always advisable. Do not wait to see if it gets better on its own, as complications are possible if it is pushed out. It is better to have your cat checked if the following symptoms indicate a bladder infection:
These symptoms can occur either individually or in combination. If cystitis is not recognized and treated in time, it can become chronic, which manifests itself as follows
Some diseases have a typical trigger. This is not the case with cystitis. There are various possible causes. Some are medically plausible, but sometimes the trigger cannot be identified. In this case, veterinarians speak of "idiopathic cystitis". Of course, it is better to know the cause so that it can be treated specifically and, if possible, eliminated for the future. If the vet is unable to make a clear medical diagnosis, the pet owner may be able to provide crucial information.
Possible causes of cystitis in cats:
Compared to cats, male cats suffer from cystitis more frequently. This is partly due to the fact that their urethra is narrower, and partly because they display a particularly territorial behavior and therefore clash more frequently with males, which is associated with stress.
It can also lead to extreme dilation of the bladder and damage to the kidneys. Therefore, do not wait too long to see if the situation improves over time. It is better to make an early appointment with the vet for a check-up.
The choice of medication depends on what the vet finds. A fresh urine sample is a great help here. As this is difficult to obtain quickly at the vet's surgery, or only with a great deal of effort, it is up to the pet owner. You may be able to collect some urine at home in a ladle, bowl or cup.
You can also soak up a stain with a pipette or temporarily fill the litter tray with non-absorbent cat litter or cover the cat litter with cling film. Then tilt the tray so that you can collect the urine in a container. In any case, it is important to take the urine sample to the vet within the next few hours.
If the vet has a urine sample, he can examineit for any crystals and bacteria it may contain. This may already lead to a quick result, but a blood test and ultrasound may also be necessary. Depending on the findings, the following medication may be used to treat cystitis:
Home remedies can only have a supportive effect. The pain and possible consequences of cystitis should not be underestimated, which is why a visit to the vet should always be planned. In addition to taking medication, teas (camomile, horsetail) are typical household remedies. These are known for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. Boil it as usual and offer it to the cat when completely cooled. There are also special teas for cats on the market.
If a cat is given antibiotics and painkillers for a bladder infection caused by bacteria, the healing process usually only takes a few days. Improvement often occurs after just one day. However, do not be tempted to stop taking an antibiotic early. Give it for the entire period agreed with the vet to minimize the risk of resistant bacteria developing.
If the cause of cystitis is not bacteria but struvite stones, for example, treatment may take several weeks.
The cause of the bladder inflammation is crucial: