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My cat has chronic constipation and UTIs. Why aren't antibiotics working?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 4 years and 8 months old | 13 lbs

4 yr old cat has severe chronic constipation and constant urinary infections. She been that way since she was a tiny kitten. My vet has tried antibotics several times but they don't help. She been getting worst as she gets older and the last few months have been bad. She drinks a lot of water and I put extra water in her food but that doesn't help. She has definitely been not feeling good.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on January 13th, 2019

This is very abnormal for a cat this young to have these chronic issues. If your family vet is stumped then it would be best for your kitty to see a specialist. I would recommend asking for a referral to a veterinary internist. Internists have advanced training beyond a family vet and can diagnose and manage more complex cases such as this one. Any blood work performed? This is a crucial first step. Xrays of the spine? Have these UTIs been diagnosed and treated by running urine cultures? With a chronic history this is very important. Has any endocrine testing been performed? There are some congenital/developmental disorders that should be ruled out as well given the history. An abdominal ultrasound is important as well to assess for structural changes to organs. Unfortunately in order to help your kitty she needs more tests. Not all pet illnesses are easy to diagnose and some cases can be complex. It sounds like you are worried about her so i would recommend reaching out to your family vet with your concerns and/or to ask for a referral. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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