How To Help My Cat Pee

How to Express a Cat’s Bladder

Urinary retention is one of the most difficult issues that some cats have to cope with. And if you’re reading this, it’s likely that your cat has this problem or another condition that makes it difficult for your cat to empty his or her bladder on his or her own time. But you don’t have to be concerned any more! It will cover every aspect of expressing a cat’s bladder that you may be interested in learning. Unlike dogs, though, emptying a cat’s bladder is a more difficult process to complete.

It has a tendency to roll about when being emptied, which might be a difficulty when trying to empty it.

Cats, on the other hand, are not so cooperative!

A large number of cat owners express cat bladders on a daily basis without difficulty, so it should not be a problem if you follow the instructions outlined below.

Using the Ragdoll technique

In the cat world, the Ragdoll technique is a frequently used approach that allows cat owners to more readily convey their cat’s bladder. The process itself is really straightforward. Just hold your cat by his armpits in such a manner that his legs hang over the litter box, and you’re done. However, doing it over a litter box is both safer and more acceptable than doing it outside. If your cat is refusing to cooperate, try to calm him down by massaging his back with your fingers. Once your cat has regained his or her composure, search for the bladder.

1. As soon as you do, you will feel a little, squishy, ball-shaped object in your hand.
2. Several studies have shown that a cat’s bladder may migrate around from the bottom of his or her rib cage to the side of the body.
3. If you are still unable to locate it, you may have to wait until your cat is in desperate need of urination since the bladder alters its structure at that point.
4. This will aid the cat in her efforts to relieve herself.
5. Make every effort to be as patient as possible!

Expressing while the cat is lying down

In most cases, this procedure is utilized for cats that have poor posture or who are paraplegic, which might result in a lack of control over their bladder. In order to properly use this technique, your cat must be lying down on a level surface with its head on the ground. Check to see if the cat is lying on one of the sides – it doesn’t matter which side it is sleeping on. Allow for as much time as possible to allow the cat to become accustomed to the treatment. It is a little more difficult to master than the Ragdoll method, but the likelihood of success is quite high.

You will be able to create trust with your cat, and he will allow you to express him the next time.

Make use of your other hand to locate the cat’s bladder, which is hidden beneath its body. As soon as you’ve located the bladder, form a cup with your palm and wrap it around the bladder. Gently squeeze and press your way to the bottom of the tube. Continue doing this until the cat begins to pee.

What to do when a cat doesn’t cooperate?

When it comes to manipulating their bladders or performing pretty about anything on demand, cats aren’t very cooperative. No matter how much trust you’ve built up with your cat over time, there will always be situations in which your cat will not cooperate with your commands or instructions. Your primary focus should be on convincing the cat that you are assisting him, as well as on continuing to create trust with your cat. Always maintain as much calm as possible when dealing with your cat in order to ensure cooperation.

Also, when you are holding your cat, try to be as kind as you possibly can.

Allow yourself as much rest as you require between each try at the operation.

Using stimulation

If your cat continues to refuse to urinate, you will need to try stimulating him. The majority of the time, female cats are used for stimulation. The techniques detailed here are absolutely effective for expressing male cats, however they can occasionally fail when it comes to expressing female cats since it can be more difficult to access their bladder in female cats. If your cat is refusing to urinate, you can gently touch the inner thigh as well as the lower belly of your cat to encourage him to do so.

Add a little pressure while rubbing to your cat’s back after you see that he is more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Many cat owners use the strategies described above to keep their cats healthy. These are also prescribed by veterinarians for general medical conditions. However, if you have any doubts regarding your cat’s incontinence, you should check with your veterinarian. It is recommended that a cat’s bladder be expressed at least four times each day. Once you’ve established a productive pattern, stick to it. Additionally, the cat will gain knowledge and become more prepared for the treatment. These procedures are quite simple and may be completed in the comfort of one’s own home.

Be patient, and it will become second nature to you and your cat in due course!

Do you think your kitty would benefit from a cat wheelchair?

Related Articles

Do you have a suspicion that your cat is having difficulty peeing? A urinary obstruction, often known as a blockage, is a medical emergency. Learn how to spot the indications of a urinary obstruction in your cat so that you can intervene before it’s too late for him.

What Is a Urinary Obstruction?

Urethral blockage occurs when the pee passageway gets obstructed and urine cannot be passed through it. This condition may be caused by silt or crystals in the urine, as well as irritation of the urinary system, among other things. Female cats are considerably more likely than male cats to have urinary blockages, according to the ASPCA. Males have a longer and narrower urethra than females, which accounts for this. The urethra can become obstructed by minute quantities of silt, mucus, or tissue inflammation, making urination difficult or impossible.

The cat becomes quite ill as a result of the rise in toxin levels in the body.

A clogged cat may eventually succumb to its injuries if not treated immediately. Cats suffering from urinary blockage may or may not also be suffering from a concomitant urinary tract infection (UTI). An blockage in the urinary system may be the cause or the outcome of a urinary tract infection.

Signs Your Cat Is Having Trouble Urinating

Cats are often excellent at concealing sickness; it is part of their natural survival drive. There are, however, several indicators that can help you assess whether or not your cat is experiencing difficulty urinating, and these are listed below. The most evident indicator of a urinary blockage is when a cat has to go to the litter box on a regular basis. If you notice something like this happening, investigate more. Keep an eye on your cat when she’s in the litter box. Are you sure he’s not straining to pee, but he’s not releasing any urine?

• Take a look in the litter box for indications of urine.
• It is likely that your cat is blocked if you notice him struggling and only a small amount of pee coming out of his mouth.
• Cats who are restless may express themselves by vocalizing or pacing.
• Cats suffering from urinary difficulties may exhibit certain symptoms before their urination is completely restricted.
• This can aid in the prevention of a blockage.

What to Do if Your Cat Can’t Pee

If you feel that your cat is having difficulty peeing on his own, it is critical that you take him to a veterinarian as soon as possible. It is important to take your cat to the next available veterinary facility when your normal veterinarian is closed. This may include taking your cat to an emergency clinic. In the absence of veterinary care, a blocked cat will die within 24 hours, probably sooner.

Treatment of Urinary Obstructions in Cats

Cats suffering with urinary blockages are often admitted to the hospital for a few days to get treatment and be monitored. When you arrive at the veterinarian’s office, make sure to inform them that your cat is unable to pee properly. Their first step will be to feel your cat’s kidneys to assess whether or not they are enlarged. An blockage of the urinary tract in a cat is often associated with a big, hard bladder that can be easily touched by a specialist. When the bladder is overfilled with pee and there is no way to empty it, it feels uncomfortable.

• Alternatively, the accumulation of toxins and renal malfunction will result in death.
• A blood sample will be taken by the veterinarian to check for electrolyte abnormalities.
• When there is a blockage in the urethra, this might be extremely difficult to do.
• Once the stiff urinary catheter has been inserted, the veterinarian will take a urine sample and then flush the bladder with sterile saline to complete the procedure.
• Most veterinarians will replace the stiff catheter with a flexible catheter to ensure the cat’s comfort.
• (tubing and a bag to collect the urine).
• Using intravenous fluids, you can flush toxins from your system and clean debris from your bladder.
• Pain drugs, anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, and/or other medications to aid in the healing of your cat may be prescribed by the veterinarian while your cat is in the hospital.
• When required, a particular urinary diet might be instituted to help with the problem.
• A particular procedure to expand the urethra may be required for male cats who continue to have obstructions.

A penisplasty is a surgical procedure that removes the penis and creates an aperture for urination. If your cat is suffering from obstructive urinary troubles, this procedure, as unpleasant as it may seem, can make a significant difference in his health and quality of life.

How to Prevent Urinary Obstructions in Cats

Some cats are genetically predisposed to urinary issues, while others are not. There are things you may take, however, to avoid a urinary blockage from occurring.

• Bring your cat to the veterinarian for yearly or biannual checkups, depending on the recommendations of your veterinarian. In certain cases, subtle abnormalities might be found during a routine inspection and addressed before your cat becomes sick. Contact your veterinarian as soon as you see any signs of an urine problem (or, indeed, any health concern)
• Feed your cat a balanced wet (canned) food since it helps to keep him hydrated and reduces the amount of minerals he consumes. Make certain that your cat has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Maintain a clean and fresh litter box so that your cat does not have to retain his urine for any longer than is absolutely required. Maintaining a healthy weight for your cat is essential.

Remedies for Cat Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections, sometimes known as UTIs, can occur in any animal. Some cats, such as male cats, overweight cats, and diabetic cats, are predisposed to developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). The infections, on the other hand, might strike any cat at any point throughout its life. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition that affects the cat’s urine (peeing) system. This comprises the bladder (the organ that retains pee) and the urethra (the tube that transports urine) (tube that pee comes out of).

• Regular urination (peeing), stooping to urinate, urinating outside the litter box, signs of pain or distress Genital licking in excess
• Genital licking in excess Urine containing blood
• Urine with a strong fragrance
• Fever
• Lethargy (tiredness)
• Nausea
• Vomiting Appetite suppression

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when germs enter the urinary tract and pass through the urethra before reaching the bladder. Aging, poor cleanliness around the genitalia, or aberrant pH values (acidity oralkalinityin liquid) in the cat’s food can all contribute to this condition. In certain cases, more serious disorders such as bladder stones (hard deposits in the bladder), traumas, tumors, or the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) may be responsible for the problem (FIV).

Remedies and Treatments for Cat Urinary Tract Infection

Cats are prone to urinary tract illnesses, which may be quite uncomfortable and distressing. If left untreated, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can result in a partial or total obstruction of the urethra. This can result in renal failure or bladder rupture, both of which are potentially fatal outcomes. A cat urinary tract infection (UTI) can be treated using at-home cures and therapies, depending on the severity of the infection. Cranberries While cranberries are commonly used to treat urinary tract infections in people, they can also be used to treat urinary tract infections in cats.

The sugar content of many cranberry drinks is significant.

First, you should check the pH levels in your cat’s urine before administering cranberries to your feline companion.

You should only give your cat cranberry supplements if his urine is too alkaline.

Continued

Apple Cider VinegarApple cider vinegar can also help to reduce the pH of your cat’s urine, which can help to eliminate and prevent the growth of potentially hazardous germs. Every day, add half a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the food you give your cat. Mixing it with chicken or beef broth will help to mask the bitter taste. – Just make sure the soup doesn’t contain any onions, as onions are harmful to cats and should be avoided. When it comes to cats, apple cider vinegar is only useful if their urine is too alkaline, similar to cranberries.

• You can also have your veterinarian do a reliable test on your cat.
• While glucosamine and chondroitin are commonly used to treat arthritis and joint discomfort in humans, they can also be used to alleviate the symptoms of a feline urinary tract infection.
• Chondroitin is a compound that helps to keep this component from breaking down.
• This helps to minimize inflammation and other symptoms associated with UTIs.
• Marshmallow Root is a kind of root that grows in marshy areas.
• It also functions as an adiuretic, which is a medication that aids in the flushing out of urine or other fluids by the kidneys, increasing the flow of urine and flushing out the bladder.
• Bone BrothIn addition to balancing the pH level and strengthening the bladder wall, maintaining your cat’s hydration is critical in the treatment of urinary tract infections in cats.
• You may provide your cat with appetizing drinks such as bone broth to ensure that he or she remains hydrated.

The amino acids (organic substances that combine to produce protein in the body) contained in bone broth, such as glycine and arginine, have been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Continued

However, while these at-home treatments and cures may be useful for clearing up mild illnesses, more serious diseases should be treated by a trained animal veterinarian in order to avoid complications. If your cat is suffering from mild or severe symptoms, you can use the following therapies to help alleviate their discomfort. If their symptoms do not improve after a few days, consult with a veterinarian for further treatment. If your cat appears to be in discomfort or is unable to discharge pee, take him or her to the veterinarian right away.

A veterinarian may be able to give medications that are specifically targeted at the hazardous bacteria.

Even if you decide to seek professional help, these home treatments can be taken in conjunction with medicines to help strengthen the bladder and restore balance to your cat’s pH levels.

How to Express a Cat’s Bladder

Your incontinent cat’s bladder may need to be manually expressed if you are responsible for his or her care. While it does take a little practice to get the hang of it, it is a simple and uncomplicated method that anyone can pick up and use right away. A healthy bladder should be able to fill and empty, expand and contract, and discharge urine. Whenever we express a cat’s bladder, the expresser’s hand works like a muscle, forcing the pee out of the bladder and out of the body through the urethra and the urethral hole.

To prevent harming the bladder walls, it is important to be as gentle as possible while pushing as much pee out of the system as is necessary.

Physically squeezing the urine out of the bladder is the initial stage in the process.

During your study of the mechanical aspects of bladder expression, you will also learn about the “art” of bladder expression, which includes techniques for balancing the stress levels of both you and your cat, determining when the bladder is sufficiently empty, and determining whether or not the cat is performing at his or her normal level of urinary tract health.

When it comes to any talent, the more you practice, the more proficient you will become at it.

Choosing a location for expressing a cat’s bladder

The place in which you express the cat is dependent on the character of the cat as well as your current position. You can say the following:

• A towel, piddle pad, or litter box placed on the floor would suffice. The transfer from a counter to a sink or toilet, or the transfer to a towel or piddle pad

It is critical to select the posture that is the most comfortable for both you and the cat at the same time. A frightened or concerned person’s cat may sense this and may respond by tensing up, obstructing the internal flow of pee, or wriggling so much that it becomes hard to handle the cat. Don’t be concerned about urine contaminating your environment. It does happen. It is preferable to get the pee out of the cat than to be concerned about the surroundings, which can be readily cleaned and sanitized after the urine is removed.

• Concentrate on the cat and have a pleasant and confident attitude toward your objectives.
• Make an effort not to be alarmed by the cat’s voice.
• Later in the day, you can approach the cat and renew your acquaintance with him before attempting to approach him again.
• The cat will eventually come to recognize you as the person who assists her in emptying her bladder.
• Even if the cat doesn’t seem to be on board with the concept, consider it to be collaboration.
• If you have any doubts regarding how to determine this, you should see your veterinarian.
• The importance of gentleness cannot be overstated.

Positioning the cat to express the bladder

It is important to remember that the cat can detect any stress in your body, so utilize your body and sense of calm to convey comfort and assurance to the cat. This will assist the cat in relaxing and will provide you more time to complete your tasks before the cat becomes restless. Here are a few pointers:

• Any stress in your body will be felt by the cat, so utilize your body language and feeling of calm to offer comfort and confidence to the cat. In addition to allowing you more time to work before the cat becomes restless, this will also assist the cat in relaxing. For starters, consider the following suggestions:

Finding the cat’s bladder

Insert your dominant (squeezing) hand beneath the cat’s abdomen, a little closer to the rear than exactly below the ribs, and squeeze gently. Place your other hand along the animal’s side so that you may gently grip and/or lift the cat when the time comes. Feel the abdomen, which should be somewhat higher than the leg sockets, once the animal has settled into place. The colon is located beneath the spine, and the bladder is located beneath that. In terms of both form and sensation, the bladder is unique.

So, what you’re really looking for is a water balloon stuffed within a warm, furry skin sack of some sort. The need to squeeze does not have to happen right away. Allow yourself a few moments to move your fingertips over the bladder area. Get to know the dimensions and form of the object.

Hand movement when expressing a cat’s bladder

The idea is to keep the bladder steady/cradled in your palm while providing the least amount of pressure necessary to drive the pee out of the bladder. It is possible to evacuate some pee from a highly full bladder simply by sliding your fingers down the sides of it. However, when the bladder empties and shrinks in size, you will most likely need to change your hand in order to push out even more liquid. Make use of the flat pads of your fingers (not your fingertips, and never your fingernails), with your thumb on the other side from where you want to draw the line.

Maintaining the position for as long as the stream of urine continues should be your goal as you squeeze and pee flows out.

If the stream continues and you notice the bladder changing and decreasing, it is OK to discreetly move your fingers to promote a continuous stream.

It’s also OK to remove your hand from the cat’s face entirely and reposition it for the next squeeze.

How to tell if the bladder has sufficiently emptied

At any point during the procedure, you may take a short break to rest a bit or give the cat a few minutes to wander about. This provides the bladder time to contract and shrink around the leftover pee, as well as giving the cat a chance to recover. If your bladder has gotten smaller but you are still able to pass pee (albeit not entirely by finger pressure), you can let the bladder fall into the palm of your hand and gently squeeze it, as if you were forming a slow fist, to release the urine.

Usually, the bladder is completely empty at this stage.

There are varying “normals” for different cats when it comes to the size of a full bladder, the size of a bladder that needs to be expressed, and the size of a bladder that is empty enough.

Tips and other pertinent information

• Always consult your veterinarian if you are unable to express any pee or if you are doubtful if the bladder has been properly emptied. It is not all bladders that are the same size or function the same way. Despite the fact that some cats generate more or less pee than others, an underlying ailment such as renal disease or diabetes can also cause an increase or reduction in the volume of urine produced. Regular subcutaneous fluid administration results in a cat’s bladder becoming too big. A full bladder of a healthy continent cat is between the size of a handball and the size of a golf ball, however the bladder of an incontinent cat can be as huge as a large grapefruit at times. It is possible for incontinent cats to have bigger bladders as a result of the bladder walls stretching over time in order to accommodate the held pee
• Some bladders are wiggly. Using your thumb to stabilize the bladder while maintaining touch with your opposing fingers can assist keep it steady enough to squeeze
• However, this is not recommended. Squeezing the bladder while softly stimulating the penis or vulva can assist relax the opening of the bladder and allow the pee to be released without the need for a strong squeeze. This approach is favored over continuous squeezes with minimal output because it reduces the irritation of the bladder walls that might occur over time as a result of manual expressing techniques. Stimulate is defined as stroking your finger briefly but repeatedly till you feel the pee coming. Because your finger will become wet, it is advisable that you use gloves
• When you express on a daily basis, you will learn what is usual for your cat. This understanding will assist you in determining whether or not the bladder has been fully emptied. In addition, you may notice changes, such as periods when the bladder is more resistant to compression. In many cases, this means that the colon has some feces in it and that there is less space available for the bladder to be maneuvered. In order to allow for greater bladder expression, it is acceptable to palpate and evacuate part of the feces. Other changes in the consistency of the bladder may occur as you get more experience, such as spongy sensation that might signal infection or abdominal gas (if your squeezing is not pushing the urine out at what you believe to be a normal rate). It is possible that the urine will have a strong, fishy odor when you have an illness. It might also have a hint of blood in it. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian right once. When dealing with gas, palpating the colon a little might be beneficial. Depending on how long you delay expressing, there may be less gas and the expressing may be more productive. This can happen if the bladder is huge and firm and you are unable to express any pee (or simply a few drops), and the cat is obstructed. This is a medical emergency, and you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Cat Having Problems Urinating: What You Need to Know About Why Your Cat Can’t Pee

Always consult your veterinarian if you are unable to express any pee or are unclear if the bladder has been adequately emptied. It is not all bladders of the same size or behavior that are the same. Despite the fact that some cats generate more or less pee than others, an underlying ailment such as renal disease or diabetes can also cause an increase or reduction in the amount of urine produced. Regular subcutaneous fluid administration results in a cat’s bladder being enlarged. A full bladder of a healthy continent cat is between the size of a handball and the size of a golf ball, however the bladder of an incontinent cat can be as huge as a large grapefruit in some instances.

• When you support your bladder while maintaining touch with your opposite fingers, you can assist keep it steady enough to squeeze; nevertheless, this method is not recommended.
• This approach is favored over manual expressing because it reduces the irritation of the bladder walls that might occur over time from repeated squeezes with little or no flow.
• You should use gloves since your finger will become wet; as you express on a regular basis, you will learn about your cat’s usual behavior patterns.
• Differences in the bladder’s resistance to compression may also be observed at different times of the day.
• In order to allow for greater bladder expression, it is acceptable to palpate and evacuate part of the stools.
• A strong, fishy odor may be detected in the urine of someone suffering from an illness.
• Any of these symptoms should be reported to your veterinarian.
• If you postpone expressing for 30 minutes or so, there may be less gas and the expressing may be more productive as a result.

Please contact your veterinarian right away since this is a medical emergency.

What the Normal Pee Pattern in Cats?

Cats will urinate between two and four times each day on average. This plan is designed for a healthy cat that is a good sleeper. According to the individual cat, it is determined by the following factors:

• What amount of water they are consuming
• In the event that they have a good appetite
• If the kitten is suffering from any health problems
• If it is really hot, the weather
• The kitty’s age in years

Observing Your Cat’s Peeing Habits

Your cat may be having difficulty peeing, and they may have to struggle to get the urine out of them. When they are unable to urinate at all, it is a very different issue. If your cat is unable to urinate at all, you must take them to an emergency veterinarian immediately. Inability to urinate might be deadly in some cases.

What are the Indications That Your Cat is Having Trouble Urinating or Can’t Pee?

Cats that are experiencing difficulty urinating or peeing may exhibit the following indications, which are not necessarily exclusive of the others:

Scratching at Litter Box and Other Odd Behaviors

While clawing at the litter pan, Kitty appears to be delaying urination. They may also engage in unusual behaviors, such as squatting down to go to the toilet but not getting anything to come out of their mouths.

Blood in Urine When Your Cat Can Pee

Blood in the urine can be caused by a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or blood clots, among other things. These issues may cause inflammation, and infection may result in blockage of the urethra as a result of these issues.

Cat is Peeing Outside of Litter Box Due to a UTI

Your cat is unable to pee in its litterbox due to a medical condition. When a cat has a urinary tract infection, he or she will frequently pee outside of the litterbox. When a cat experiences discomfort when urinating, they link the box with the pain and as a result, they urinate outside of the box.

What is the Main Cause of Feline Urinary Tract Disease?

cystitis is a bladder infection caused by a bacterial infection that is also accompanied by a mineral imbalance and an abnormal pH level. When it comes to cats’ pee, cystitis is connected with the formation of small mineral crystals in the urine. These crystals can combine to produce unsightly stones that can be rather disabling. It has the potential to induce a significant blockage in the urethra, resulting in your cat having trouble peeing or being unable to urinate altogether.

Medical Issues That Can Cause a Cat to Have Problems Urinating or Them Not Being Able to Pee at All

Once you’ve determined where your cat’s urination issues are coming from, you and your veterinarian may collaborate on developing a treatment plan that will work for both of you. If these problems are not addressed as soon as feasible, they might be detrimental to kitten. Some medical explanations for your cat’s inability to urinate or inability to pee include the following:

Urinary Tract Infection

If your cat enters the litter box and does not generate an acceptable volume of pee, he or she may be suffering from a urinary tract infection (UTI). It is also usual for your cat to urinate outside of the litterbox, particularly when coping with anything upsetting for kitty, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Feline Interstitial Cystitis

Feline Interstitial Cystitis is a neurological condition that affects the bladder function of cats. Cats suffering with this condition may appear to be peeing, but they are actually straining and just a small amount of urine is coming out. It is possible that they have blood in their pee, which is quite dangerous.

Another ailment that might cause your cuddly feline to pee outside of the litter box is a urinary tract infection. Cats who are under a lot of stress are prone to doing this. If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, it is critical that you take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Kidney Stone or Blockage

In the event that your cat is suffering from kidney stones or blockage, he or she will often enter and exit the litter box. The kitten is sensitive when you touch their stomach, and there is frequently discomfort. It is critical to get treatment for this condition since it is frequently accompanied by considerable discomfort.

What Can I Do to Help if My Cat is Having Problems Urinating or Can’t Pee?

If you find that your cat is not urinating or is having difficulty peeing, it is critical that you contact an emergency veterinarian as well as your regular veterinarian. Having said that, your veterinarian may advise you on various products that can assist your cat in going to the bathroom more frequently. If your cat is experiencing difficulty peeing or is unable to urinate at all, the following items may be of assistance:

Feed Your Cat Wet Foods

Wet meals include a high concentration of water, which might cause urine to be triggered. Dry food has around 10% water, whereas canned food contains approximately 78% water. Cats are intended to get the majority of their water from the food they consume.

Medications

Some drugs will lead cats to urinate more often as a result of the medication. Some cardiac drugs can drain excess fluid from the patient’s body, causing them to become dehydrated. In addition, steroids might cause your cat to consume more water, which causes the cat to pee more frequently. You should never give your cat any form of medication without first consulting with a veterinarian, who can advise you on the best medication to give your cat and the appropriate amount to provide.

Try to Have Your Cat Drink More Water

Kittens tend to consume more fluids than adult cats on a regular basis. With age, you should pay closer attention to your cat’s drinking habits to ensure that they are getting the proper quantity of water to help keep them healthy.

Call an Emergency Vet Right Away if Your Cat’s Having Urinating Problems or if They Can’t Pee

There are a number of reasons why your cat may be experiencing urination issues. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most frequent. Cystitis, kidney stones, and kidney obstructions are all conditions that might create issues. Although there is no cure for this condition, there is medication that can help the cat pee freely and without any issues, which is why obtaining veterinarian care as soon as possible is so crucial. No matter what kind of emergency issue comes through our doors, our staff at North Central Veterinary Emergency Center is prepared to manage it, especially when cats are having difficulty peeing or cannot urinate at all.

Make no compromises when it comes to the health of your pet.

My Cat Can’t Pee! Feline Urethral Obstruction: Be Aware

It is possible that this website contains affiliate links. When you make a qualified purchase, we receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Our objective is to help preserve the lives of dogs and cats by providing them with educational information.

Please consider purchasing one of our web-books for yourself or as a present in order to assist us in creating additional veterinarian- and trainer-approved information. Let me begin by stating the following…

A cat that cannot pee is a cat that’s going to die, unless appropriate veterinary medical care is provided immediately.

Urethral blockage is a medical emergency that is severe, acute, and life-threatening. In the event that you take nothing else away from this first episode of my essay series on feline urethral blockage, I hope you will at least grasp the necessity of being able to detect and respond to this common pet emergency as soon as possible. The second and third episodes will cover ‘what to do’ in the case of a urethral blockage, as well as the actions you should take to reduce the risk of it occurring or prevent it from occurring entirely.

Stop reading, get away from your computer, and get your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

They must receive adequate medical treatment as soon as possible if they are to have any chance of surviving.

Hopefully, you’ve arrived at this page before your cat becomes obstructed in some way.

What are the signs that my cat may have a urethral obstruction?

Depending on how long they’ve been obstructed, your cat’s urethral blockage symptoms may vary. As is true with many diseases and ailments, the sooner you notice and address the problem, the better your pet’s prospects of survival are (and the lower your financial costs will typically be). The following are some of the symptoms that a cat is being hindered. They are (essentially) arranged in the following order: early indications first, then later signs. Despite the fact that, in medicine, as in life, few things ever truly “follow the textbook,” Important to remember here is that you should be paying close attention to your cat’s activity level, appetite, eliminations, and behavior on a regular basis; if you do so, you will be more likely to discover a problem early in its course.

Remember to keep your eyes peeled…

Signs that may indicate urethral obstruction in cats include:

• Frequently visiting the litter box
• Lack of urine in the litter box after you know they’ve been in there
• Vocalizing or straining while in the litter box (which many owners mistake for a sign of constipation)
• Excessive licking of their penis
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden onset excessive drinking
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain (which is often expressed by them trying to bite or scratch you when you try to pick them up)
• Hiding
• Collapse
• Death

Not to belabor the subject, but if you see any of these indicators in your cat — especially if they are male or have any of the other risk conditions — you should take them to the veterinarian right once for an assessment and treatment.

Although it is unlikely that there is a urethral blockage, it is always better to be safe than regrettable. You should do this both for the sake of your cat and for the sake of your bank account. And here’s what to expect when you bring your cat in for treatment for urethral blockage.

So, what’s a ‘urethra’ anyway?

Though most individuals are aware of what their kidneys look like and what their bladder looks like, few are aware of what their urethra looks like (or its tubular cohorts, the ureters). Consider the following… After all, the bladder is like the warehouse where the product (in this case, urine) is stored and the litter box represents the customer that this product (in this case, urine) needs to get to, and the urethra represents the interstate upon which UPS (or whatever carrier you prefer) depends to deliver the product (in this case, urine) to its final destination.

• While the scenario described above will almost surely prove to be a headache for both the manufacturer and the consumer, it is not likely to end in the demise of any of these individuals.
• The heart is the most important of those organ systems, at least in terms of ensuring the continuance of life on our planet.
• As a result of my initial comment…
• Do you see what I’m getting at?

How does this urethral ‘interstate’ become obstructed?

It’s a good thing you inquired. The urethra of a cat can get blocked for a variety of reasons, one of which being a rockslide-like obstruction. (See the list at the bottom of this page.)

The ways in which your cat’s urethra can become blocked include:

• Your ‘rockslide’ is the production and lodgement of a urinary mineral stone (‘urolith’) in the urinary tract. obstruction of the urinary tract due to the production and lodging of urinary sand/grit, or a plug of mucus released by an irritated bladder wall or the inner lining of the urethra
• Blood clot development in the urinary system as a result of bleeding within the urinary tract tumor (cancerous or non-cancerous) developing either from within the urethra itself, or from a structure encircling the urethra that pressures the urethra from the outside
• A urethral stricture is the formation of scar tissue inside the muscle that surrounds the urethra
• It narrows the width of the urethral lumen through which urine may travel, increasing the likelihood of a blockage
• The spasm of the urethral muscle — a condition that can have a similar effect on the urethral lumen diameter as urethral stricture
• The contraction of the urethral muscle One of the reasons why cats with indwelling urethral catheters must always wear E-collars and why they should never be left overnight in a clinic or hospital without on-site monitoring is the presence of a ‘foreign body,’ such as a previously implanted, but not completely removed, urethral catheter.

Are all cats at risk of this condition?

Despite the fact that all cats (and dogs) are at risk of urethral blockage, the problem tends to occur most frequently in cats-and among cats, the most typically afflicted are those with specific predisposing characteristics and those with a make cat. These are some of the risk factors:

• Feline males are at greater danger than feline females. Cats who are overweight are at greater danger than cats in good physical condition. Cats who eat exclusively (or even predominantly) dry food are at greater risk of developing diabetes than cats who eat exclusively (or predominantly) wet food. It is more likely that cats who have previously experienced a urethral obstruction will obstruct again (especially if their management has not changed)
• The risk of urethral obstruction in cats who suffer from recurrent bladder inflammation (cystitis) is higher than in the general population
• Numerous cats are at increased risk of urethral obstruction when they are exposed to stressful situations (such as home renovations, family trips, a new baby, and so on). Recognize the signs of stress in your cat and read this article by Dr. Chris Pachel, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, on the causes and prevention of cat stress
• Neutered cats, as well as cats that are restricted to their homes, appear to be at greater risk than sexually intact cats, as well as cats that spend time outside. However, both of these factors also have the potential to predispose cats to obesity — primarily as a result of overfeeding them in comparison to their actual calorie requirements — and are therefore more likely to be indirect risk factors for the development of urethral obstruction (with obesity providing the link). Since having your cats neutered and keeping them indoors provides far more health and safety benefits than the relatively small increase in risk they may pose in relation to the development of a urinary obstruction, I still recommend that you do both, and that you concentrate on changing the more significant urethral obstruction risk factors.

Thank you to my friend Dr. Tim Trevail of Trevail Imaging Referrals in the United Kingdom for providing the beautiful radiographic (X-Ray) image below of a cat’s urine bladder, the wall of which has swollen due to persistent inflammation in the urinary bladder (cystitis). The bladder wall is shown by the broad greyish band that runs between the two black arrows; it is substantially thicker than it should be. Because of its persistent cystitis, this cat would be at a greater risk for urethral blockage.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to help avoid your cat (and your heart) from developing urethral blockage in the first place.

It will only take a minute or two of your time and will be extremely beneficial in spreading the word to other cat owners.

Please accept my thanks in advance. Many other cats will benefit from the knowledge you provide. It’s completely anonymous and will take no more than 2 minutes. Thank you very much!

Helping Your Cat Deal With Stress-Related Urinary Issues

Cats, despite the fact that they appear to have a carefree existence, may get quite anxious very quickly. Urinary difficulties in cats might be one of the first indicators that your cat is suffering from a stress-related condition. It is critical for cat owners to understand the signs and symptoms of feline AIDS and how to best assist their feline companions.

Unusual Urinary Behavior

When cats are happy and healthy, they will utilize the litter box for both peeing and defecating, according to the manufacturer. Your cat may be suffering from feline urinary stress (also known as feline lower urinary tract illness (FLUTD)) if she begins to display any of the behaviors listed below:

• Constipation
• Incontinence/loss of bladder control
• Using the toilet outside the litter box
• Screaming out in agony when peeing or attempting to urinate
• Chewing on the genital area
• Decreased appetite
• And more.

When a cat has reached their stress threshold or is experiencing a medical problem, they will exhibit the signs listed above. However, some early signs of stress may include your cat hiding more, becoming less affectionate, changing her eating habits, or only urinating or defecating in her litter box (not both). Some cats, on the other hand, may exhibit indications of urinary stress without any prior warning. In the event that a cat exhibits indications of urinary stress, it is critical that you contact your veterinarian to evaluate whether a visit is necessary or whether you should attempt some at-home therapies first.

Spotting the Stressors

Identifying any stressors that your cat may be experiencing is critical if your cat is exhibiting strange behaviour during urination or peeing outside of the litter box on a regular basis. When you call your veterinarian to discuss your cat’s symptoms, he or she may ask you a series of questions to assist you determine what is causing your cat’s stress, such as:

• When did the atypical urine activities first begin to manifest themselves? Have you made any recent modifications to her diet or litter box? What other out of the ordinary behaviors are occurring in conjunction with the urine difficulties
• Any significant changes in your household, such as a remodel, new pet or newborn or the loss of someone in the family
• Have occurred
• And if so, what were they?

An additional point to consider is that cats are often tuned in to the emotions of their pet parents, so you may want to check in with yourself as well. Have you been under a lot of pressure lately? Have you noticed that stress is interfering with your regular activities? It’s likely that your cat’s daily routine has been disrupted as well if yours has been. The symptoms of excessive or insufficient sleep are frequent in people who are stressed. In the event that a cat detects these changes in her pet parent, she may feel agitated, and her problems may manifest themselves in her urine habits.

Short-Term versus Long-Term Stress

Changes that are significant in a cat’s life, such as a move or the addition of a new pet to the household, may cause temporary worry. The majority of cats adjust in a decent length of time; nevertheless, some cats continue to be agitated, which might result in urinary difficulties. If the stressor is detected promptly and the cat receives the individualized care she need, the urinary difficulties may be resolved rather fast. Stress causes that are more difficult to manage are long-term circumstances that may not have immediate solutions and can result in more significant urinary problems.

Although the introduction of a new pet necessitates a period of adjustment and some degree of temporary stress is to be expected, when two or more cats have a hostile relationship, this may result in urinary stress symptoms, which can result in an unhealthy environment for everyone.

How You Can Help Her

If your cat is suffering urinary stress, it is probable that a trip to the veterinarian is in order. In certain cases, your veterinarian may recommend medicine and/or modify her diet to include therapeutic cat food, which can help ease some urinary troubles and put her back on the road to feeling well. In addition to prescribing medicine and food, your veterinarian may make recommendations on how to make your home more comfortable for all of the cats in your household. It is best to feed your cats individually and provide them with their own litter box, bed, and hiding spot in case things become too stressful.

Keeping the litter box and house clean, as well as making sure she is well-hydrated, can help to alleviate tension and prevent or eliminate feline urinary issues in cats.

Once you have determined what is causing your cat’s urinary stress and have found strategies to lower her stress level, it is critical that you assist her in managing her stress in an appropriate manner moving forward.

Yoga is a fun and innovative method for you and your cat to unwind together and relieve tension.

If she prefers to be alone, there are a plethora of excellent pet yoga videos available on the internet for the two of you to enjoy at your leisure.

In the event you know your routine will be disrupted soon or that a major life change (such as a relocation, a new person in your home, a new animal, etc.) is on the horizon, attempt to prepare your cat by choosing goods and toys she adores.

Additionally, keep the litter box clean at all times and provide her with a peaceful spot to unwind.

Contributor Bio

Chrissie Klinger is a model and actress. As a mother of two children and a pet parent to three dogs and a cat, Chrissie Klinger likes creating pet-related articles that help families bond and enjoy life together with their pets. When Chrissie is not teaching or writing, she likes spending time with her family and traveling around the world.