BACTERIAL URINARY-TRACT INFECTIONS

Bacterial urinary tract infection rarely is the initial cause of lower urinary tract disease in cats; however, a substantial number of cats with various lower urinary tract disorders develop urinary infections as a complication of the underlying disease or its treatment. Examinat ion of urine sediment for pyuria is a good screening test for urinary tract infection, but results of urine cultures are needed to diagnose such infections reliably, as well as to guide therapeutic decisions. A ppropriate antimicrobial drug therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for urinary tract infection. Treatment of the underlying urinary disor der also is important, and follow-up urine cultures should be performe d to determine therapeutic outcome.