A smelly litterbox is not something anyone likes. Even the best cat condos will have a certain scent. How can a cat guardian tell the difference between sickly and clean? How do you know if your cat’s urine level is normal?
Normal cat urine
The most difficult task is to observe your cat’s urine. Modern litter and litterboxes do a great job hiding urine smell and sight. Monitoring cats using litter boxes is nearly impossible because felines require complete isolation. Here are some clues that will help you to be sure your cat is urinating normally.
Normal cat urine frequency
The dry and arid Mesopotamia 1 was where the cat evolved. They developed clever systems to keep hydrated when water was scarce. Most adult indoor cats, who are healthy, will urinate on average twice per day. The frequency of your cat’s urination will depend on the amount of water consumed, heat and humidity, food moisture, medical conditions like kidney disease, bladder infections, and liver problems, as well as 2. It is important to understand your cat’s daily urination rate and habits. While some cats can urinate five times per day, others may need to urinate more frequently. Most cats only use the litterbox once or twice per day. Going four times would be a sign of a problem. Don’t wait if your cat suddenly starts urinating more often than usual. Your veterinarian should immediately check for any changes in the frequency of urination.
Normal cat urine color
Normal cat urine should be clear and pale yellow 3 The yellowish hue in healthy urine is often called “straw-colored” or “golden”. It is important that the urine doesn’t become cloudy or hard to see. Most often, changes in color (darkness or light), cloudiness, or particulate matter (floating particles) are a sign of bladder or kidney problems.
Normal cat urine odor
Chances are that your cat’s urine smell won’t be too strong if it is an adult spayed or neutered cat. Normal urine will have a 3 slightly pungent, acidic smell. This scent is generally mild and not offensive.
Abnormal cat urine
Many cats with a kidney or bladder problem will urinate outside of the litterbox 4. If your cat is experiencing “accidents” within the home, it is possible that you have a serious illness. I advise cat guardians to seek immediate medical attention.
Abnormal cat urine frequency
A concern is any increase or decrease in the frequency of urination. A decrease in urination can be caused by straining or vocalizations. This can indicate a urethral obstruction. Bladder infections or cystitis (inflammation) can cause increased urination, which can be a very painful condition. Diabetes, kidney disease, behavioral problems, and frequent urination may also cause more frequent urination. Your cat may need help if they are urinating in strange places or going to the toilet less often. You should respond quickly.
Abnormal cat urine color
The most frequent color change that cat guardians have reported to me is bloody or dark urine. Frantic feline owners call me to describe a reddish trail from the litterbox to the food bowl. Notify your veterinarian immediately if you notice any changes in color, particularly red-tinged urine. My greatest concern is that blood clots, bacteria, or swelling from inflammation or infection could cause obstruction to the urethra. This can lead to a potentially fatal inability to urinate. Urethral obstruction can happen in just a few hours. This makes it crucial to seek medical or surgical attention quickly. Colorless urine is another sign to watch out for. A sign of diabetes or kidney disease is dilute urine. Pale, cloudy urine can indicate dilute urine. If the constancy or color change is noticeable enough for you, your veterinarian should check it.
Abnormal cat urine odor
It is difficult to identify a problem smell because the odor is subjective. Many cat guardians have “olfactory fatigue” and are unable to detect the scent of their litterbox. If you don’t know what I mean, I have been swept away by the smell shockwave while opening cat carriers. Many urine malodors are associated with bladder infections and cystitis(inflammation)6. The urine odor can change drastically due to tumors or hormonal disorders in male cats. If you notice something strange in your cat’s litter box, consult your veterinarian.
The bottom line for the litterbox
Knowing what your cat’s typical urine looks like is the bottom line of “normal versus unusual cat urine”. The lower urinary tract of a cat is very susceptible to infection and inflammation. It can also provide insight into kidney function, diabetes, and other illnesses. Keep an eye out for changes in frequency, color, and odor. Pet parents often need to remember that even subtle changes can have a significant impact on their cat’s urination. A simple urine and blood test can quickly identify the cause of abnormal urine in your cat and help you to determine the best treatment. Most causes of abnormal cat urine can be treated quickly and your cat will feel frisky within minutes.
