Cat Infection Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms that indicate a possible cat infection. Different areas of the cat's body can develop infection. The symptoms vary depending on which area is infected and what type of infection exists. Many infections can be prevented with vaccination and there are a variety of treatments to alleviate the symptoms.

Urinary Tract, Bladder and Kidney Infections

Cats usually develop an infection in the urinary tract first and then it may spread to the lower urinary system including the bladder and even the kidneys. You might initially notice your cat exerting himself when trying to urinate. You may also notice that he is going to the litter box more often. You’ll also notice, however, that less urine is being produced. The pressure of the inflammation makes your cat feel like he has to urinate more but you'll see less clumps of urine in the box.

He may begin to associate pain with the litter box and thus urinate outside the box. If you hear him making distressed noises in the litter box, he's probably in pain. If the infection worsens, his bladder may become obstructed. A cat with an obstructed bladder is in extreme pain, and it's an emergency situation. He'll yowl and hide under beds or furniture, and you should seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Other Signs of Urinary Infection

As the infection moves to the lower urinary tract, other symptoms may also develop. A cat with this problem may compulsively lick and bite at genitals and the skin surrounding that area. This means he feels irritation there and is trying to alleviate it. He may also try to soothe the irritation by rubbing on cold, smooth surfaces.

You may notices changes in the urine itself. It may be even more foul smelling or have a darker color to it. You'll notice this especially if your cat is eliminating outside the box. You may also see blood in the urine. Even trace amounts of blood is a serious sign.

Other Common Infection Symptoms

A cat can get a systemic infection that attacks the immune system. She can also develop infection in the eyes, ears, or upper and lower respiratory systems or the digestive system. Common symptoms include a thick discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth. The discharge may be white or a yellowish color. The eyes, nose and mouth may also become inflamed. An ear infection usually manifests as a foul smell coming from the ears.

The infections that attach the upper airways can lead to sneezing or a hacking cough. In the lower airways, an infection can lead to difficulty breathing or a raspy meow, almost like a voice that is hoarse. Excessive or unusual vomiting and diarrhea usually means that there's an infection in the digestive tract.

 

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