August 15, 2025 |7 min read
How Long Can a Cat UTI Go Untreated?
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When it comes to our cats, even the smallest shift in their behavior can tug at our heartstrings. A pet who suddenly spends more time in the litter box, strains to pee, or leaves behind only a few drops might be trying to convey that something's not right. A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria find their way into the bladder or urinary tract. While it might seem minor at first glance, this is a condition that should never be left on the back burner.
So, how long can a cat UTI go untreated? The short answer is not long at all. If a UTI is left to linger, symptoms can escalate quickly, sometimes within days. Unlike humans, cats are masters at hiding their pain, which means by the time they show obvious distress, the infection may already be serious.
That’s why veterinarians urge cat parents to treat UTIs as time-sensitive. While there isn’t a set number of days that’s “safe,” an untreated UTI in cats can turn dangerous much faster than you might expect. Early attention avoids further discomfort and protects your cat’s long-term health and well-being.
Risks of Leaving a Cat's UTI Untreated
UTIs don’t politely resolve on their own. They dig in, spread, and cause worsening problems. Here’s what can happen if that infection goes unchecked:
1. Kidney Infections
The bladder is only a short trip away from the kidneys. Left untreated, bacteria can travel upward, leading to a kidney infection. This can threaten your cat’s overall health and require more intensive veterinary treatment.
2. Bladder Stones and Blockages
Recurring or untreated infections can trigger the formation of bladder and kidney stones. These stones irritate the urinary tract, making every bathroom trip painful. In male cats, especially, stones or inflammation can create blockages that require immediate care to prevent bladder rupture.
3. Sepsis and Systemic Illness
When bacteria from the urinary tract enter the bloodstream, the infection can spread throughout the body. This advanced complication, called sepsis, is life-threatening. While rare, it’s a chilling reminder of why timely treatment matters so much.
4. Chronic Pain and Behavior Changes
Cats with untreated UTIs may start to associate the litter box with pain. Some avoid using it altogether, leaving puddles around the house. Others may become withdrawn, vocalize more often, or even show aggression from the constant discomfort.
When Does It Become an Emergency?
Knowing when to act can be lifesaving. If your cat strains in the litter box but produces little or no urine, cries out while peeing, or discharges blood in their urine, it’s time to head to the vet immediately. A urinary blockage can turn fatal in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Even if it’s not a blockage, a worsening UTI can cause a rapid decline.
If a cat's UTI is left untreated, then the risks pile up fast, ranging from painful bladder stones to life-threatening emergencies. The bottom line is, don’t wait. When it comes to your cat’s urinary health, swift action is the greatest gift you can give.
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What to Do if You Suspect a UTI in Your Cat
Cats can be mysterious little creatures, but when it comes to their health, even subtle shifts can be loud signals if you know how to tune in. So, what should you do if you suspect your cat might have a UTI?
Recognizing the Early Symptoms
The first step is learning to spot those early red flags. Cats don’t “act out” for no reason, so behavior changes are often their way of asking for help. While every cat is unique, some common signs include:
- Frequent trips to the litter box with only tiny amounts of urine
- Straining or looking uncomfortable while peeing
- Excessive licking around the genitals
- Blood in urine
- Vocalizing in or near the litter box
- Avoiding the litter box altogether and going in unusual places
When to Call Your Vet
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s time to call your veterinarian. UTIs can worsen quickly, and the sooner you act, the better the outcome for your furry friend. Your vet may run a urinalysis, culture, or blood test to confirm whether it’s a UTI or another urinary issue. From there, they can prescribe the right treatment, which may include antibiotics, special diets, or additional supportive care.
How PrettyLitter Can Help You Catch a UTI Early
Here’s the tricky part: cats are pros at concealing discomfort. By the time their symptoms become obvious, the infection may already be advanced. That’s where PrettyLitter steps in as a game-changer for proactive cat parents.
PrettyLitter is a health-monitoring tool disguised as your cat’s bathroom routine. Our formula changes color to help you spot potential health issues early, including signs that may suggest a urinary tract problem.
A Color-Changing Early Indicator
When your cat uses the litter, PrettyLitter’s super-absorbent silica gel traps the moisture and reacts to the urine’s pH levels. If something seems off, the litter changes color. This subtle shift can act as an early alert, nudging you to call your vet before things spiral.
While PrettyLitter won’t diagnose a UTI (that’s your vet’s job), it can give you a vital heads-up that something may be brewing. Think of it as your silent partner in care, helping you notice what your cat can’t tell you outright.
Why Early Detection Matters
The benefit of a health monitoring cat litter is that you can catch a potential urinary issue early and get faster relief for your cat. Instead of discovering a UTI when your cat is already in pain or in emergency care, you get a chance to act before the infection takes hold. That’s peace of mind for you, and comfort for them.
At the end of the day, our cats rely on us to be their advocates. With quick action and tools like PrettyLitter in your corner, you’ll have what you need to protect their health and keep them comfortable for all the cuddles, playtimes, and quiet moments to come.
Sources:
- PetMD. UTIs in Cats (Urinary Tract Infections in Cats). https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/urinary/utis-cats-urinary-tract-infections-cats
- Garden State Veterinary Specialists. Emergency Cat UTI Treatment: What You Need to Know Now. https://gsvs.org/blog/cat-uti-emergency-treatment/
- Animerge Vets. Cat Urinary Tract Infection - Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery. https://www.animergevets.com/site/blog/2021/05/30/cat-urinary-tract-infection
