🩺 Vaginitis in Cats – Vet Guide 2025

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc – Ask A Vet Blog Writer

1. What Is Vaginitis? 🚺

Vaginitis is inflammation of the vaginal tissues. It can affect kittens, adults, and both intact and spayed cats. Causes range from normal bacterial overgrowth to serious conditions needing prompt treatment. It often causes discomfort, so quick veterinary care helps your cat feel better fast.

2. Who Can Get It & Why It Matters

Vaginitis is seen in:

• Kittens: Spayed or intact, due to juvenile anatomy or maternal bacteria.
• Adult cats: Both intact and spayed—spayed cats may develop juvenile type vaginitis or recurrent urinary tract conditions.

Left untreated, vaginitis may lead to recurrent UTIs, discomfort, or secondary complications.

3. Signs to Watch For 🕵️‍♀️

• Frequent licking of the genital area
• Redness, swelling, or discharge (yellow, green, mucous, blood-tinged)
• Straining to urinate or urinating outside the litter box
• Lethargy or mild discomfort when sitting
• Recurrent urinary symptoms

4. Causes & Risk Factors

4.1 Juvenile (Prepubertal) Vaginitis

Common in kittens after their mother’s immune protection wanes. Typically resolves with maturity and a short period of treatment.

4.2 Bacterial Infection

• Normal skin bacteria overgrowth (e.g., E. coli, streptococci)
• Secondary to urinary disease or anatomical issues

4.3 Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Often concurrent—similar signs like urinating inappropriately or straining are seen in both conditions.

4.4 Hormonal & Anatomical Causes

• Oestrogen-responsive vaginitis (intact females in heat)
• Structural abnormalities—vestibular swelling or labial stenosis
• Trauma or irritation (e.g., foreign bodies, chemical irritants)

5. Diagnostic Approach ⚕️

At the vet, expect:

• Physical exam: Genital inspection (with gloves!), noting redness, swelling, discharge.
• Urinalysis and culture: Differentiate urinary from vaginal disease.
• Vaginal cytology: Identify bacteria vs inflammatory cells.
• Bacterial culture: Guides antibiotic choice.
• Imaging (if needed): Ultrasound or X-ray for bladder anatomy or masses.

6. Treatment Options 🧴💊

• Antibiotics: Based on culture & sensitivity, typically 7–14 days.
• Topical care: Gentle flushing or antiseptic solutions prescribed by your vet.
• Warm compresses: Soothe inflamed tissues and ease discharge.
• Underlying causes: Treat UTIs, adjust toileting environment, or surgically correct structural issues.
• Spaying: In juvenile cases or if hormonal influence suspected—reduces recurrence in adult intact cats.

7. Recovery & Home Care 🏡

• Cleanse genital area gently with veterinary-approved wipes.
• Monitor discharge, swelling, and urination habits daily.
• Administer medications fully—finish antibiotics even if symptoms resolve.
• Prevent the cat from licking medicated areas (E‑collar or gentle recovery suit).
• Maintain clean litter and quiet resting areas.

8. Prevention Tips 🔒

• Spay kittens early if not intended for breeding
• Use gentle, unscented litter and clean litter boxes frequently
• Avoid strong chemical cleaners around cats
• Maintain hydration and encourage frequent urination
• Regular veterinary checkups to catch recurring UTIs or anatomical issues early

9. When to Re‑Visit the Vet 🚨

• Persistent or worsening discharge and swelling
• Straining, blood in urine, or recurrent urinary signs
• Lethargy, fever, or lack of appetite
• No improvement after 5–7 days of treatment

10. Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Care Support 🛠️

• Ask A Vet: Capture photos of swelling or discharge, share via chat/video, and ask about flushing techniques or medication timing.
• Woopf: Offers soft recovery suits that protect inflamed areas and prevent repetitive licking without the stress of hard collars.
• Purrz: Provides probiotic supplements that support urogenital health and gentle healing formulas to improve vaginal flora.

11. Prognosis & Outlook 🌟

Most cases respond well to appropriate treatment. Juvenile vaginitis often resolves fully as cats mature. With spaying or structural correction, recurrence is rare. Consistent home care and hygiene strengthen long-term outcomes.

12. Summary Takeaways ✅

• Vaginitis affects kittens and adult cats—any we see discharge, redness, or frequent licking of the genital area.
• Proper vet diagnosis—urinalysis, cytology, culture—is essential to guide effective treatment.
• Combining antibiotics, topical care, spaying (if needed), and home hygiene yields the best results.
• Follow-up and prevention—clean litter, gentle products, checkups—help avoid recurrences.
• Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz provide valuable support throughout treatment and recovery.

13. Final Thoughts ❤️

Vaginitis in cats is uncomfortable but treatable. Swift recognition, tailored veterinary care, and diligent home support help your cat heal quickly and stay comfortable. Reach out via Ask A Vet if you notice persistent symptoms. Your care makes all the difference!