Preventing UTIs in Pets: Tips and Treatment Options

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue in both cats and dogs, causing discomfort and, if left untreated, potentially leading to serious complications. As pet owners, understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies can help keep your pet healthy and comfortable.

At Liberty Veterinary Hospital in Liberty Township, Ohio, we believe in proactive care to prevent UTIs and other urinary conditions. In this guide, we’ll discuss what causes UTIs, how they’re treated, and what you can do to reduce your pet’s risk.

What Is a UTI in Pets?

A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, leading to inflammation and discomfort. UTIs can affect both cats and dogs, but they are more common in:

  • Female dogs due to their shorter urethras
  • Older pets with weakened immune systems
  • Pets with underlying conditions such as diabetes or bladder stones

While UTIs are typically bacterial infections, they can sometimes indicate more serious health problems, such as bladder stones or urinary obstructions.

For more information on urinary stones in pets, visit the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).

Signs of a UTI in Pets

How can you tell if your pet has a UTI? Common symptoms include:

  • Frequent urination or straining to urinate
  • Accidents in the house or outside the litter box
  • Blood in the urine (pink or red discoloration)
  • Strong-smelling or cloudy urine
  • Licking the genital area more than usual
  • Pain or discomfort while urinating (whimpering or crying out)

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly.

When to Seek Emergency Care:
 If your pet is unable to urinate, appears to be in extreme pain, or is straining without producing urine, this could indicate a urinary obstruction, a life-threatening emergency. This is especially common in male cats—learn more from the ACVS guide on urinary obstruction in cats.

What Causes UTIs in Pets?

Several factors can contribute to UTIs, including:

  • Bacterial infections (often from fecal bacteria entering the urethra)
  • Bladder or kidney stones that create irritation and infection
  • Underlying conditions, such as diabetes (learn more about diabetes in pets)
  • Weakened immune system, often seen in older pets
  • Poor hygiene or inadequate grooming
  • Infrequent urination, which allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder

Diagnosing UTIs in Pets

If your pet is showing signs of a UTI, your veterinarian will perform diagnostic tests, such as:

  • Urinalysis – Checks for bacteria, blood, and abnormal pH levels.
  • Urine culture – Identifies the type of bacteria causing the infection.
  • Imaging (X-rays or ultrasound) – Helps detect bladder stones or other abnormalities.
  • Bloodwork – Assesses kidney function and screens for underlying conditions like diabetes.

A quick and accurate diagnosis ensures the best treatment plan for your pet.

Treatment Options for UTIs

Once diagnosed, UTIs in pets are typically treated with:

  • Antibiotics – To eliminate bacterial infections.
  • Pain relief medications – To reduce discomfort.
  • Increased water intake – Encourages frequent urination to flush out bacteria.
  • Special diets – If bladder stones are present, a prescription urinary diet may be recommended.

In severe cases, additional treatments such as IV fluids or surgical removal of bladder stones may be necessary.

For more details on canine UTIs and their treatment, visit Cornell University’s Canine Health Center.

How to Prevent UTIs in Pets

Prevention is always better than treatment! To help reduce your pet’s risk of UTIs, follow these tips:

1. Encourage Hydration

  • Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
  • Consider a pet water fountain to encourage drinking.
  • Offer wet food or add water to dry kibble to increase moisture intake.

2. Promote Regular Bathroom Breaks

  • Take your dog out frequently, especially before bedtime.
  • Ensure your cat has a clean litter box in a quiet, accessible location.

3. Maintain Good Hygiene

  • Regularly clean your pet’s bedding and litter box.
  • Groom long-haired pets to prevent urine or fecal contamination.

4. Feed a Balanced Diet

  • Some pets may benefit from a urinary health diet to maintain proper bladder pH.
  • Avoid excessive treats or high-mineral foods that could contribute to bladder stones.

5. Monitor for Underlying Health Conditions

  • Pets with diabetes or other chronic illnesses are at higher risk for UTIs.
  • Regular veterinary checkups can help catch problems early.

For more UTI prevention tips and treatment options, visit Embrace Pet Insurance’s UTI guide.

Talk to Your Veterinarian

If you suspect your pet has a UTI or you want to discuss prevention strategies, our team at Liberty Veterinary Hospital is here to help!

Have questions? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Need to book an appointment? Request an appointment here.