Urinary Blockage in Cats: When to Seek Emergency Vet Care

If you are the owner of a cat, particularly a male, it is important to be aware of the symptoms experienced during a urinary blockage. ‘Blocked bladders’ can quickly become life-threatening but prompt therapy can save the cat’s life.

What Is a Urinary Blockage in Cats?

Cats need to be able to void urine several times a day, to prevent the bladder from over-filling. If the bladder is unable to empty and urine cannot be passed in decent quantities, this is called a urinary blockage.

Why Do Cats Get a Blocked Bladder?

There are a number of factors known to contribute to blocked bladders in cats.

Stress and Lifestyle Factors

For many, stress will play a role. A change in routine or a traumatic event can lead to inflammation of the bladder (cystitis), and there may be pain or spasms when trying to urinate.

There is also a higher risk of blockage if the cat is drinking less or feels anxious about using their litter box, for example, if another cat has used it or if they perceive it to be overly soiled.

Diet, Crystals and Bladder Stones

Crystals are small minerals that can precipitate into the urine, particularly if a cat is not taking on enough fluids. These will sometimes form stones, which can physically block the flow of urine along the urinary tract.

Diets that lack moisture or that cause a pH which is too high or low can lead to crystals and stones forming. Over consumption of minerals such as calcium or magnesium can play a role for some.

Over-feeding can cause obesity and this is known to be another risk factor for urinary blockages.

Underlying Inflammation and Infection

Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) is incredibly common among the feline population, and many cats will not have any bacteria overgrowth. Indeed, bacterial infections are only found to be present in about 1-3% of young cats.

What Are the Signs of a Blocked Bladder in Cats?

Frequently, owners confuse constipation with urinary obstruction. However, it is essential to differentiate these to conditions promptly.

Straining and Frequent Trips to the Litter Box

Blocked cats are constantly straining and in their litter box, trying to relieve the pressure. They regularly lick their genitals.

Vocalising, Restlessness and Pain

Cats who are struggling to pass urine are restless and distressed. They often meow and yowl, and may breathe more rapidly or pant. As they are in pain, they may be reluctant to allow you near them and can become aggressive.

Other Common Symptoms to Watch For

Other symptoms that can occur include:

• Dribbling small amounts of ‘overflow’ urine (urine may be cloudy or bloody)
• A rounded or tense abdomen
• Food refusal
• Vomiting
• Dilated pupils
• Weakness

When Is Cat Urinary Blockage an Emergency?

There is no doubt that a urinary blockage is a true emergency. Untreated, cats can pass away within hours.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

If you suspect a potential urinary blockage, contact the emergency vet right away. If it is the evening or overnight, do not wait until the next morning to have your pet seen, as every minute counts.

Why Hours Matter With a Blocked Bladder

The longer a cat is blocked, the fuller their bladder becomes. When the bladder can no longer cope, it can rupture.

As the kidneys are no longer able to filter, waste products build up and cats experience abnormally high potassium, urea and creatinine levels as well as dehydration and acid base imbalances.

High potassium can affect the heart’s rhythm, so these cats are at risk of bradycardia (low heart rate) and sudden cardiac arrest.

What Causes Urethral Obstruction in Cats?

There are a few things to consider when it comes to the underlying mechanism behind the blockage.

Bladder Stones and Crystals

Crystals and stones can physically block the urethra, which forms a passageway between the bladder and the outside world.

Urethral Plugs and Inflammation

For many, the urinary tract is inflamed and there is a urethral plug which forms from crystals, sticky mucus and inflammatory debris.

Why Male Cats Are More at Risk

Male cats are at a much higher risk due to the narrow width of their urethra and the long distance and winding route it has to travel until it exits the body, when compared to females.

How Do Vets Diagnose a Urinary Blockage in Cats?

If your cat is showing signs of a urinary blockage, your vet will already be highly suspicious of the diagnosis.

Physical Examination and Bladder Assessment

The veterinarian will perform a quick physical check of your cat, listening to their heart and feeling their kidneys and bladder.

Blood Tests and Kidney Function Checks

A quick in-house blood test will usually be performed to assess the hydration levels, kidney function and current electrolyte levels, as well as the acid base status.

Imaging and Further Diagnostic Tests

Your vet may wish to perform imaging such as X-rays and an ultrasound in order to visually assess the urinary tract and to check for evidence of any stones or masses.

How Is a Blocked Bladder in Cats Treated?

The priority will be in stabilising the patient, as many present to the clinic in shock.

Emergency Stabilisation and Catheterisation

If there is concern for elevated potassium, your vet will want to administer intravenous fluids and may also give medicines such as calcium gluconate and dextrose to lower elevated potassium levels.

A urinary catheter is inserted under sedation, in order to allow for immediate flow of urine. After emptying the bladder, it will usually be flushed with saline.

Treatment for Underlying Causes

Any identified risk factor or cause of the blockage should be addressed. This can mean:

• Starting a urinary diet
  
• Encouraging fluid intake
  
• Use of pheromone products to limit stress levels
  
• Reducing stress by ensuring cats have all of the resources they need
  
• Antibiotics for any infection, ideally after performing a culture and sensitivity test

Ongoing Veterinary Care and Monitoring

Some cats will have an indwelling catheter placed until it is established that they can urinate by themself. These patients are usually managed in the clinic for several days before being sent home.

Many cats will receive pain relief, anti inflammatories and anti-spasmodics for a week or two.

Owners will need to keep a close eye for any early signs of another blockage, as these cats are highly prone to re-blocking.

Can Urinary Blockages in Cats Be Prevented?

Not every blockage can be prevented but there are a number of things owners can do to reduce the likelihood.

Diet and Hydration

Maintaining adequate hydration at all times is key. This can mean offering a wet diet, using water fountains and tempting your cat to drink with low salt broths and soups.

Reducing Stress and Litter Box Access

It has been proven that higher stress levels contribute to bladder inflammation and blockages. It helps to ensure cats have easy access to several litter boxes and that they are in quiet, low foot-traffic areas.

Cats thrive on predictable routines and need plenty of spaces where they can sleep undisturbed and hide away. They also benefit from regular play time, exercise and other forms of mental stimulation.

Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Regular vet checks are sensible so your vet can keep an eye on your cat’s general health and so they can check the urine for any abnormalities such as an abnormal pH or the presence of crystals or bacteria.

Further Measures

When a cat is repeatedly getting blocked, your vet may discuss a surgery called a perineal urethrostomy, to try to ensure this does not continue to happen.

Get Veterinary Advice for Your Cat

Contact us to discuss any concerns about your cat and their urinary health. For a suspected obstruction, please contact our emergency services right away.

Cat Urinary Blockage: FAQs

How long can a cat survive with a urinary blockage?

As urinary blockages can cause the heart to beat irregularly, cats can pass away within hours.

What are the first signs of a blocked bladder in cats?

Initial signs of a blocked bladder will include more frequent trips to the litter tray, restlessness and genital licking. Any urine passed may contain blood.

Can a cat urinary blockage clear on its own?

No, a urinary blockage cannot resolve without therapy. This is a true emergency and cats need to be seen by a vet urgently.

Are male cats more likely to get blocked?

Male cats are far more likely to develop urinary blockages compared to females due to their anatomy. The long and narrow urethra can easily become plugged and blocked.