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Why does my cat's urine smell strongly of garlic? Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 13 lbs

My cats urine smells strongly of garlic, but neither of the other cats with the same food and clay based litter are having the same issue. Should I be worried?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on May 12th, 2019

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. There is nothing necessarily that should make your cat's urine smell like garlic, but it may be possible that Butter's urine is just much more concentrated than your other cats. I would ensure that she is drinking enough water and not dehydrated, as dehydration leads to concentrated, very smelly urine. If she seems to be drinking a comparable amount to your other cats, I would not be worried. If she is acting abnormal in any other ways, I recommend having her seen by your veterinarian for an exam and a urinalysis. Your vet can test the urine for any abnormal chemicals such as sugar or ketones, or test for infection, that may cause it to smell different from your other cats. I hope this is helpful!

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