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My cat is peeing blood, straining, and licking. Does she need a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Female | spayed | 4 years and 4 months old

My female cat 2 days ago had a pee that looked bloody. Then she cannot pee fully now only a little comes out and she keeps going back and forth to the litter box and licking her self down there. What do I do ? Can it be treated without a vet as I’m moving and low on money but will take her if it needs treating by a vet

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 27th, 2020

Hi, and thanks for your question. These signs might be compatible with a urinary tract infection/inflammation. Stress related (idiopathic type of inflammation) infections and presence of crystals are the most common causes of it. Unfortunately a clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 17th, 2017

    It sounds like she has cystitis which is a urinary infection/inflammation from bacteria or crystals. Often the urine will have blood in it. It causes straining and pain. This is common in cats. I recommend you take her in for an exam and a urinalysis to determine if she has an infection and or crystals. They may recommend a course of antibiotics, a change of diet and perhaps the supplement cosequin to reduce the inflammation. You can make her more comfortable by feeding wet food with added water to flush out her bladder. This can be a recurring problem so getting the proper treatment is important. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Mooshie.

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