Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my cat peeing blood and urinating outside the litter box?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 lbs

My cat is peeing with blood mixed with it, and pees everywhere in the house. How can I treat this?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 31st, 2019

Poor Jr! Possible causes of bloody urine and urinating outside the litter box would include FIC (feline idiopathic cystitis), bladder stones, or a bacterial urinary tract infection. None of these problems can be treated at home, so you will need to take Jr to the vet for an exam. He/she can do a urinalysis to help diagnose the problem and will get him started on appropriate medication to treat it depending on what is found.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 5th, 2016

    This does indeed sound like Russel has cystitis. It is rare for male cats to have cystitis unless it is an idiopathic cystitis, which, in cats is caused by stress.You will need to find the cause for the stress and remove it. Is there a neighbor's cat outside that pesters him, or has someone moved into your house or moved out, or did you get a new pet? Things like that can cause idiopathic cystitis in very sensitive kitties. You can get some Feliway dispensers for your house which will help him feel happier. There is also a chance that Russel may have bladder stones or a lot of struvite sand in his bladder which can irritate it and make it bleed. In order to diagnose this your vet will need to take a urine sample , spin it down and look at the sediment under the microscope. Bladder stones are usually diagnosed with either x-rays or , better, and ultrasound exam. you may want to discuss this with your veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 27th, 2020

    Bloody urine is typically indicative of a urinary tract problem whether it be inflammation or infection. I would have her seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. She will likely require a urinalysis and pain medication.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 4th, 2017

    I am so sorry about Kiera. It is very concerning when cats start to urinate outside the litter box, especially when there is blood. I am so glad that you have an appointment with your veterinarian. It is important to get this checked out. Most likely the veterinarian will want to perform a urinalysis, so it would be helpful if she doesn't urinate right before she goes to the vet. They may also recommend doing abdominal x-rays. This is to look for stones that can form in the bladder and cause irritation, inflammation and bloody urine. It is actually very uncommon for cats to have a urinary tract infection. More often the signs are caused by bladder stones or are a result of a condition called idiopathic cystitis (there are several other names for this same condition). This disease is frustrating because it is not well understood, but we think stress is a big factor in the development of it. The veterinarian may also talk to you about how to decrease stress in the environment or special diets that can help with urinary tract issues. For tonight, just make sure she is still urinating. Cats can become blocked if there are stones or even large amounts of cells or mucus in the urine. This is much more common in male cats, but can occasionally happen in females as well. If she is straining to urinate, but nothing is coming out, this is an emergency situation and I would take her to an emergency vet right away. Good luck and I hope she feels better soon!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored