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I have a catheter-associated urinary tract infection

A catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CA-UTI) is a urine infection that can happen if you have a catheter in place, or have had one in the last couple of days. This page explains what causes it, what symptoms to look for, and how it’s treated.

Possible treatments

What are CA-UTIs?

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (also called CA-UTIs) happen when a tube called a catheter, used to drain urine from the bladder, gets infected. They are often used in hospitals before or after surgery and in people who have trouble with bladder control.

This chapter contains general information about catheter-associated urinary tract infections. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: October 2025

Reviewed by: 

  • Dr. Clara Cerrato (YAU Working Group Infections in Urology)
  • Prof. Gernot Bonkat (Guideline Panel on Urological Infections)