Urinary blockage in cats

Urinary blockage in cats, also known as feline urethral obstruction, is a serious and potentially
life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. It occurs when the urethra
(the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) becomes blocked, usually due to
the formation of crystals, stones, or inflammation. This prevents the cat from urinating properly,
leading to a buildup of waste and toxins in the body.Urinary blockages are common in male cats
due to their narrower urethra and are more prone to this problem than females.
Signs of urinary blockage in cats include:
– Straining to urinate or frequent attempts to urinate
– Small amounts of urine or none at all
– Crying or vocalizing while trying to urinate
– Licking the genitals excessively
– Restlessness or agitation
– Vomiting
– Lethargy
– Loss of appetite
– Swollen or painful abdomen
Causes of urinary blockage:
– Crystals , stones , blood clots or mucus plugs in the urinary tract
– Inflammation , infection or spasms of urethra
– Stress or environmental factors
– Underlying medical conditions
Emergency action:
– If you suspect your cat is blocked, please seek veterinary care immediately. This is a
life-threatening emergency, as a blocked cat can develop kidney failure, electrolyte imbalances,
and other serious complications including death.
Treatment:
– The veterinarian will typically:
– Relieve the blockage through catheterization or surgery under general anesthesia if safe to
do so
– Administer IV fluids to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
– Provide pain relief and medications to reduce inflammation or infection
– Investigate underlying causes to prevent recurrence
Prevention:
– Maintain a proper diet formulated for urinary health, prescription urinary diets are effective and
can help minimise chances of urinary blockage.
– Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times
– Reduce stress and provide a calm environment

-Regular veterinary check-ups with urinalysis.