Accepted Answer

Hello-

This is often due to a urinary tract infection. The bacteria causes inflammation in the bladder, which irritates the epithelial lining and causes bleeding.

A urinary tract infection can often easily be treated with a round of antibiotics, but it is not something to put off treating for too long, as it is very uncomfortable for the cat and can eventually lead to either stones, kidney infections or chronic cystitis. Stones themselves can cause more bleeding, and if you feel this is a lot of blood (more blood than urine, not just 'tinted' urine, you should get to a vet today).

Your vet will want to check a fresh urine sample to determine which type of bacteria is causing this and if crystals or casts are present, then choose the proper antibiotic for curing.

Definitely make sure your cat is able to produce and let out urine each time squatting. The situation is much different with a male cat than with a dog or even female cat when this occurs. That is because the male cat's urethra is extremely thin, and what usually causes this is a urinary tract infection with crystals, and the crystals get stuck in the urethra and block the bladder from emptying. This is a dire emergency situation, requiring an emergency vet A.S.A.P. It is lethal if not treated quickly- as the bladder continues to fill with urine and will eventually rupture.

Best of luck, and let me know if I can help further.

Christine

Expert:	ChristineLVT
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	6/22/2009

Certified Veterinary Technician

Licensed veterinary technician (B.S. Mercy College), 10 yrs in animal medicine and training