Understanding Urinary Blockages in Cats: A Guide from Stanton Pet Hospital

At Stanton Pet Hospital, we understand how frightening and urgent a urinary blockage can be for both cats and their owners. A urethral obstruction is a life-threatening emergency that prevents a cat from urinating, leading to toxin buildup, kidney failure, electrolyte imbalances, and even death if left untreated.

Knowing the early signs, risk factors, and preventative measures can help protect your cat’s health and quality of life. If your cat is showing symptoms of a blockage, seek veterinary care immediately—delays can be fatal. Contact Stanton Pet Hospital today for expert emergency care.

What Is a Urinary Blockage in Cats?

A urinary blockage occurs when the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, becomes partially or completely obstructed. This can be caused by:

  • Urinary crystals or bladder stones blocking the urethra
  • Mucus and protein plugs forming inside the urinary tract
  • Urethral spasms or swelling due to inflammation or infection

Male cats are at the highest risk due to their narrow urethras. Without treatment, a blocked cat cannot expel urine, leading to toxic waste buildup, electrolyte imbalances, and organ failure.

Learn more about urethral obstructions in cats.

Recognizing Symptoms of Urinary Blockages

Catching symptoms early can save your cat’s life. Warning signs include:

  • Straining in the litter box but producing little or no urine
  • Frequent, unproductive attempts to urinate
  • Painful vocalization (crying or yowling) while urinating
  • Licking the genital area excessively
  • Lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting
  • A swollen or painful abdomen

In severe cases, a cat may become weak, disoriented, or collapse due to electrolyte imbalances affecting the heart and nervous system. If you notice any of these signs, seek immediate veterinary care.

Read more about urinary obstructions in male cats.

How Urinary Blockages Affect the Body

The Role of Blood Work and Electrolyte Imbalances

When a cat is unable to urinate, toxins and electrolytes build up in the bloodstream, leading to:

  • High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) – Can cause fatal heart arrhythmias
  • Severe dehydration – Strains the kidneys, worsening the blockage
  • Acid-base imbalances – Affect nerve and muscle function, worsening weakness and lethargy

Through bloodwork, veterinarians can monitor kidney function, electrolyte levels, and toxin buildup, guiding fluid therapy and emergency treatments.

Learn more about feline urinary tract infections.

Diagnosing Urinary Blockages at Stanton Pet Hospital

At Stanton Pet Hospital, our veterinarians use advanced diagnostics to quickly assess the severity of the blockage, including:

  • Physical exam – Checking for an enlarged, firm bladder
  • Urinalysis – Detecting infection, blood, or crystals
  • Bloodwork – Evaluating kidney function and electrolytes
  • X-rays or ultrasound – Identifying stones or blockages

Early and accurate diagnosis saves lives. Schedule an appointment for a urinary health evaluation today.

Treatment Options: What Happens at the Vet?

1. Emergency Stabilization

Blocked cats often require:

  • IV fluids to correct dehydration and flush toxins
  • Electrolyte therapy to stabilize potassium levels
  • Pain relief and sedation to reduce discomfort

2. Catheterization

To relieve the blockage, a veterinarian will:

  • Pass a sterile catheter into the urethra to clear the obstruction
  • Flush the bladder to remove debris, crystals, or stones
  • Leave the catheter in place for 24–48 hours to allow healing

3. Surgery (If Necessary)

For cats with recurring blockages or bladder stones, surgery may be required:

  • Perineal urethrostomy (PU surgery) – Creates a wider urethral opening to prevent future blockages.
  • Bladder stone removal surgery – Necessary when stones cannot be dissolved with diet alone.

Learn more about PU surgery for cats.

Preventing Future Urinary Blockages

1. Hydration Strategies for Cats

Encouraging proper hydration is one of the best ways to prevent urinary blockages:

  • Feed wet food – Contains higher moisture than dry kibble
  • Use a cat water fountain – Running water encourages drinking
  • Offer multiple water bowls – Place fresh water in different locations
  • Try different bowl types – Some cats prefer shallow dishes to avoid whisker fatigue
  • Use hydration supplements – Products like Purina Hydra Care can increase moisture intake
  • Flavor the water – Adding low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice can make water more appealing

2. Special Urinary Diets

Cats prone to blockages often require prescription urinary diets, which:

  • Regulate urine pH to prevent crystal formation
  • Increase moisture content to promote hydration
  • Contain reduced minerals to prevent stone development

Learn more about urinary stones in cats.

3. Reducing Stress and Environmental Factors

Stress can contribute to feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Reduce stress by:

  • Providing multiple, clean litter boxes
  • Using pheromone diffusers (like Feliway)
  • Engaging your cat with play and mental stimulation

4. Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Routine exams help monitor urinary health, identify early signs of inflammation, and adjust diet or hydration strategies as needed. Schedule a wellness visit today.

FAQs About Urinary Blockages in Cats

Q: Can female cats get urinary blockages?

Yes, but they are less common because female cats have a wider urethra. However, they can still develop bladder stones or infections that cause discomfort.

Q: How quickly can a blockage become fatal?

A complete obstruction can become fatal within 24–48 hours. Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice symptoms.

Q: What should I do if my cat is showing early symptoms?

  • Monitor their litter box habits closely
  • Encourage hydration with wet food and fresh water
  • Seek veterinary attention at the first sign of straining or discomfort

Contact Stanton Pet Hospital for Expert Care

A urinary blockage is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. At Stanton Pet Hospital, our experienced team provides advanced diagnostics, emergency treatment, and long-term management strategies to keep your cat healthy and happy.

Schedule an appointment today or Contact us for urgent concerns.

Early detection and prevention save lives—don’t wait to seek care!