Cat Bleeding When Urinating: A Guide for Worried Cat Owners

Seeing your cat pee blood can be a scary experience for any pet owner. It’s important to know that this isn’t normal and you should call your vet immediately if you notice any blood in your cat’s urine. Let’s discuss why your cat might be peeing blood and what you can do to help them.

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What is Hematuria?

The medical term for blood in the urine is hematuria. Sometimes the blood is bright red and easy to see. Other times, there’s only a tiny amount that can’t be seen without a microscope.

Why Is My Cat Peeing Blood?

There are many reasons a cat might have blood in their urine. Here are some of the most common:

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): FLUTD is a group of conditions that affect the bladder and urethra (the tube that carries pee out of the body). One common type of FLUTD is feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), where the bladder is inflamed but there isn’t a clear cause. Experts think that stress plays a big role in FIC.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Like humans, cats can get UTIs. These infections happen when bacteria enter the bladder. While UTIs are less common in cats than dogs, they’re still possible and need to be treated with antibiotics.
Bladder Stones: Bladder stones are hard deposits of minerals that can form in the bladder. They irritate the bladder and cause bleeding. Sometimes, special food can dissolve them, but other times they need to be removed with surgery.
Other Causes: Other less common reasons for blood in cat urine include:
- Trauma or injury to the kidneys or urinary tract
- Bladder cancer, which is more common in older cats
- Problems with blood clotting

What Should I Do If My Cat Is Peeing Blood?

If you notice blood in your cat’s urine, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away. Your vet will help determine the underlying cause and recommend the right treatment for your cat.

How Do Vets Diagnose a Cat Peeing Blood?

To find out why your cat is peeing blood, your vet will ask you about their symptoms and any changes in behavior. They’ll do a physical exam and might recommend some tests, including:

Urinalysis: This checks the urine for blood, bacteria, crystals, and other abnormalities.
Urine Culture: If your vet suspects a UTI, this test will help identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Bloodwork: This can help determine your cat’s overall health and check their kidney function.
X-Rays or Ultrasound: These imaging tests can help your vet see the bladder and kidneys, looking for stones, tumors, or other problems.

How Is Cat Bleeding When Urinating Treated?

The treatment for blood in your cat’s urine will depend on the cause:

UTIs: Antibiotics are used to clear up bacterial infections.
Bladder Stones: Some bladder stones can be dissolved with special food, while others need to be removed with surgery.
FLUTD, Including FIC: Treating FIC focuses on managing stress and discomfort. This may include:
- Pain relief medications: To make your cat more comfortable
- Increased water intake: To dilute the urine and reduce bladder irritation. You can try adding more water bowls, using a water fountain, or feeding canned food
- Stress reduction: Creating a calm environment can help manage FIC. This might involve providing more litter boxes, vertical spaces like cat trees, and interactive toys.

Can I Prevent My Cat From Peeing Blood?

While some causes of bloody urine are unavoidable, you can take steps to reduce your cat’s risk:

Encourage Water Intake: Make sure your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times. You can encourage them to drink more by using a water fountain or adding a little bit of tuna juice to their water. Feeding them canned food, which is higher in moisture, can also help.
Minimize Stress: Keep their environment calm and predictable. Make sure they have safe places to hide, high perches to climb on, and plenty of toys to keep them entertained.
Talk to Your Vet About Diet: Your vet can recommend a balanced diet that supports urinary health. Sometimes, they might suggest a special diet to prevent bladder stones.

When is Cat Bleeding When Urinating an Emergency?

It’s always best to err on the side of caution and call your vet anytime you notice blood in your cat’s urine. However, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care if:

Your cat can’t pee at all: This is an emergency and could be a sign of a blocked urethra, which is life-threatening.
Your cat is straining to pee or crying out in pain: These signs could indicate a blockage or a serious medical condition.

Remember, you know your cat best. Any time you see something that seems off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet. They can provide the best care for your furry friend.