Cystitis

Urine, produced by the kidneys, is stored in the urinary bladder before exiting the body through the urethra. The urethra acts as a channel for urine excretion; its length offers protection against infection from the outside. Cats with urinary bladder inflammation (cystitis) strain to produce small amounts of urine (may be mistaken for constipation), urinate outside the litter box, and may have blood in their urine. Common causes of cystitis include feline idiopathic interstitial cystitis, stones, polyps, and tumors. Urinary tract infections affect cats less commonly (<5%) due to their highly concentrated urine. Suspicion of feline cystitis is based on history and physical examination; definitive diagnosis requires a urinalysis, urine culture, and abdominal x-rays. Complicated cases of cystitis may require more advanced imaging with ultrasound and/or contrast studies. Treatment for cats with uncomplicated (non-obstructive) cystitis includes a combination of fluid therapy to help flush the bladder, dietary changes, pain relief, and medications to alleviate bladder spasms and restore normal urine flow. Antibiotics are indicated only when an infection is found. An inability to urinate (straining with no urine production) requires emergency treatment to relieve the painful, life threatening urinary tract obstruction.

Have an Emergency?

If you are to the south of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Blue Pearl Emergency
3020 Mallory Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 333-1212 Ext. 1

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)
* best choice for exotic pets*
2035 Mallory Ln, Franklin, TN 37067
629-235-4420

If you are to the north of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Nashville Veterinary Services Emergency
2971 Sidco Drive, Nashville, TN 37204
(615) 386-0107



Location Hours
Monday7:00am – 5:30pm
Tuesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Wednesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Thursday7:00am – 5:30pm
Friday7:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday7:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed