logoPET OWNER VERSION

The Urinary System of Cats

BySherry Lynn Sanderson, DVM, PhD, DACVIM-SAIM, DACVIM-Nutrition
Reviewed/Revised Aug 2018

    The urinary system or tract includes the kidneys, the ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder), the bladder, and the urethra (the tube through which urine exits the body). The urinary system has several important functions. It gets rid of the waste products that are created when food is transformed into energy. It also maintains the correct balance of water and electrolytes (salts) needed for the body’s cells. Another key function is the production of erythropoietin and renin, which are important in maintaining healthy blood pressure, producing blood cells, and absorbing salt correctly. Finally, the urinary system processes vitamin D.

    Urinary system in male cats

    Urinary system in female cats

    Also see professional content regarding the urinary system.

    quizzes_lightbulb_red
    Test your Knowledge nowTake a Quiz!
    Download the free Merck Vet Manual App iOS ANDROID
    Download the free Merck Vet Manual App iOS ANDROID
    Download the free Merck Vet Manual App iOS ANDROID