Inappropriate Urination in Cats in Springfield, IL

Litter box problems are the number one issue that we see cats for at West Lake Animal Hospital in Springfield Illinois.  Typically when we examine at cat that has urine issues we hear from the client that the frustrating feline has been urinating and sometimes defecating outside of the litterbox.  Some cats will go to the same spot repeatedly, others have certain objects they are going on like clothing, towels, and rugs, and a small percentage are going in random spots. 

The first step is to have your veterinarian do a full exam to be sure your furry friend is otherwise in good shape and healthy.  At West Lake Animal Hospital in Springfield we then collect a urine sample to run a urinalysis.  How does one “catch a urine sample” on a cat?  It’s not easy!  Frequently we let them hang out at the clinic for a while with some special non-absorbable litter.  A cystocentesis can be performed if necessary, and will be performed if a sterile sample is needed. ​
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The urinalysis checks for infection, pH, specific gravity, crystals, blood, and a few other parameters that indicate the overall bladder health.  If we find abnormal results that indicate infection, we will treat with antibiotics.  Other treatments for diseases that involve inflammation or crystals may include prescription diets.  If your cat has frequent cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) or urinary tract infections, there are some environmental changes that you can make to help prevent symptoms.  It is advised to have one extra litter box than you have cats in your household.  Encourage your cat to drink water by providing a water fountain and offering canned food as part of the diet which provides more moisture in the diet.  We recommend rechecking urine samples two weeks after antibiotics to be sure the issue has been resolved. 
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If you have a cat that suffers from urine issues at home, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian about it.  There are definite medical conditions that cause this in cats or sometimes it can be behavioral which your veterinarian can also discuss with you.  Please call us if you have any questions regarding your cat’s health, 217-529-4499.  

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