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Why is my cat peeing blood and drinking more water than usual?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Chinese Li Hua | Female

My cat is 3 years old and has been experiencing blood in urine since two weeks ago and drinks more water. Her SDMA is 21 μg/dL, which seems to be a rather high level. The vet we went to said that she had mild renal failure but stopped short of giving more examinations and I don’t think the medicine he provided works. What might cause blood in urine? What examinations should be taken to make a diagnosis? Any recommendation for medicine or food? Thanks in advance!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 14th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Kiki. I recommend that she has a urine culture to see if she has a urinary tract infection. If so, it can spread to the kidneys causing damage resulting in an elevated SDMA. She will also need x-rays of her abdomen to check for bladder stones. If these tests are negative, idiopathic cystitis is common in cats. It is inflammation in the bladder that can lead to blood in the urine. If her veterinarian is concerned with kidney disease, then her blood pressure should be measured. Diet recommendations will be based on her final diagnosis. I hope this information helps!

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