Why does my cat's urine smell like ammonia? Is it a health concern?

Question

Why does my cat urine smell like ammonia. Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Female | spayed | 6 lbs

Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Urine is mostly water and urea which is a waste product of protein breakdown. Urea can develop into ammonia NH3 > NH4 which is why your cat litter smells like ammonia. You should empty out the litter completely more frequently (less deep litter with frequent cleaning is preferable for your cat). If your cat is older you should consider taking her in for blood testing to check her kidney function. There is a new test called SDMA which can detect early kidney disease.

Why does my cat's urine smell like ammonia? Is it a health concern?

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