Excessively Frequent Urination (Pollakiuria) in Cats

Pollakiuria is common in cats. It does not immediately suggest a medical emergency, however many conditions resulting in this symptom are very uncomfortable, indicating a need for prompt medical attention. Some causes, such as urinary stones, may lead to an emergency if left untreated.

The bladder’s internal lining protects it from the caustic and acidic nature of urine. If the bladder lining is inflamed or otherwise unhealthy, urine can cause irritation. This causes frequent urination to keep the bladder empty. There are a wide variety of conditions that may lead to pollakiuria.

Pollakiuria varies in how often a cat uses the litterbox, but this does not always reflect the severity of the underlying condition.

The sex and neutered status of the cat helps determine the diagnosis, as some conditions only affect cats of a certain sex. Diagnostic evaluation includes:

• Physical examination
• Diagnostic imaging
• Cystoscopy
• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis and urine culture
• Biopsy

Treatment for pollakiuria varies widely depending on the underlying cause, but commonly include

• Anti-inflammatories
• Antibiotics
• Painkillers
• Fluid therapy
• Surgery

In rare cases, inpatient care may be required.

Pollakiuria is defined as frequent urinary trips with little urinary volume.

Cats with pollakiuria may ‘have accidents,’ and urinate outside their litterbox or pan.