Urinary health is vital to your pet’s comfort and overall wellness, yet issues with the urinary tract are surprisingly common in both dogs and cats.  Regular monitoring of lab work is the best way to pick up signs of kidney disease in the early stages when steps can be taken to slow or reverse the process.

Understanding the most frequent urinary diseases can help you recognize early signs and seek care before they become more serious.

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are more common in dogs than cats and occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract. Symptoms include:

  • Frequent urination or accidents
  • Straining to urinate
  • Blood in the urine
  • Licking the genital area

If an intact (unneutered) male is straining to urinate, it could be more than a UTI.  It could be due to prostate disease or stones.  While UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, it’s important to address them quickly to prevent complications like bladder or kidney infections.

2. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)

FLUTD is a group of conditions that affect the bladder and urethra in cats. It can be caused by stress, crystals, stones, or even unknown factors. Watch for:

  • Urinating outside the litter box
  • Straining or vocalizing during urination
  • Bloody urine
  • Frequent attempts to urinate with little output

In male cats especially, FLUTD can lead to a life-threatening blockage and should be treated as an emergency if they cannot urinate.  In our next blog, we’ll tell you what to look for.

3. Bladder Stones

Both dogs and cats can develop bladder stones—mineral formations that can cause irritation, infections, or even blockages. Signs often mirror those of UTIs or FLUTD. Diet changes or surgery may be required, depending on the type and size of the stones.

4. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

More common in older pets, CKD occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste.. Symptoms may include:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Weight loss
  • Lethargy
  • Bad breath or mouth ulcers

Early detection and supportive care can help manage symptoms and slow progression.

When in Doubt, Reach Out. If you notice any changes in your pet’s urination habits, don’t wait—early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. With the right care and support, many urinary tract conditions can be managed effectively so your pet stays comfortable and healthy.

Stay tuned for a post later this month where we’ll talk about nutrition and lifestyle tips for supporting urinary health!