Causes

• Urinary tract infections are caused by a dramatic increase in bacteria in the bladder. This bacterial growth can be caused by a number of things, including the bladder not emptying properly or a decrease in urination due to dietary changes. Urinary problems can also be a symptom of other bladder or urethra problems like a blockage or underlying disease.
  
  

Symptoms

• You might notice that your cat is making noise while in the litterbox. This is caused by the pain during attempted urination. Taking an excessively long time to urinate with little results can also signify a problem. Sometimes cats will urinate outside of the box; on the floor, counter, in your bed or even in the kitchen sink. If your cat begins peeing in strange places, schedule a vet appointment. Excessive licking at the area and blood in the urine are also important symptoms.
  
  

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Once you take your cat in to the vet, she will extract a urine sample from the cat and then test it for bacteria. Depending on the results of the culture, your vet will prescribe antibiotics and possibly a painkiller to clear up the problem and ease the pain of the cat. Antibiotics are given for 10 to 14 days and then the urine is retested.
  
  

Complications

• Occasionally, antibiotics alone will not cure the UTI and more drastic measures will need to be taken. In the case of an obstruction or stone, surgery may need to be performed. Bladder and urinary problems can also signify more serious complications such as liver failure. If antibiotics do not take care of the problem after several weeks, your vet will likely suggest more comprehensive tests.
  
  

Prevention

• While there isn't a lot that you can do to prevent your cat from getting a UTI, some simple measures can be taken. Feed your cat a high-quality, vet-recommended premium food several times a day or let your cat free-feed when it is hungry. Make sure the cat has access to fresh, clean water all day, every day. If you have multiple cats, each should have its own litterbox, which should be cleaned frequently.