Vaginal Inflammation (Vaginitis) in Cats
Key takeaways
Vaginitis in cats is a rare condition characterized by inflammation, discharge, and discomfort in the vagina
- A number of factors, including bacterial or fungal infections, urinary tract infections, the presence of foreign objects in the vagina, and traumatic injuries, can cause vaginitis
- Symptoms of vaginitis include excessive licking of the genital area, redness, and swelling
- Diagnosis is based on physical examination, vaginal examination, urinalysis, and diagnostic imaging
- Once diagnosed, treatment options may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and surgery
- With early detection and treatment, affected animals typically have a good prognosis
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A closer look: Vaginal Inflammation (Vaginitis) in Cats
Vaginitis in cats is rare and is not generally a medical emergency. Nonetheless, prompt veterinarian attention is warranted as the condition is uncomfortable and may be painful.
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Risk factors
The severity of symptoms is not an indication of the severity of underlying disease causing vaginitis. Symptoms that develop suddenly may be associated with injuries, foreign bodies, or infections. Chronic symptoms are more likely to be associated with malformations or development of tumors.
Possible causes
The most common causes of vaginal inflammation include;
- Bacterial infections
- Urinary tract infection
- Traumatic injuries
- Skin disease causing irritation
- Presence of foreign objects
- Tumors
- Malformations of the vulva or vagina
Obese cats may have a higher risk of vaginitis due to decreased grooming around the vulva, allowing accumulation of debris. This debris may result in bacterial infections if it enters the vagina.
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
Animals presenting symptoms of vaginal inflammation generally undergo the following diagnostic tests:
- Discussion of medical history
- Physical examination
- Vaginal examination
- Vaginoscopy
- Vaginal smear
- Bloodwork
- Urinalysis
- Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound
Steps to Recovery
Once diagnosed, treatment varies depending on the underlying cause of the inflammation.
Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatories
- Surgery to correct malformations or remove tumors
- Removal of foreign bodies
- Medicated vaginal wipes
With treatment, cases of vaginitis typically have a good prognosis.
If the inflammation is caused by bacterial infection, the animals are generally able to recover within days of starting antibiotic treatment.
Inflammation caused by traumatic injuries or a foreign object generally resolves quickly once treated. Tumors or malformations may be more difficult to treat, with longer recovery times.
Prevention
Regular veterinary checkups and keeping up to date with vaccinations is the best way of ensuring the animal's health.
Vaginitis is not contagious.
Is Vaginal Inflammation (Vaginitis) in Cats common?
Vaginitis is a rare condition in cats.
Typical Treatment
- Antibiotics medication
- Anti-inflammatories
- Surgery
- Medicated vaginal wipes
