Feline Urethral Obstruction

Who is usually affected?
-Younger to middle aged male cats
-Most commonly seen in Persians, overweight cats, and sedentary cats
-Indoor cats are more at risk

Overweight cat Click to enlarge

What is happening?
-The bladder is unable to empty due to the presence of crystals or stones blocking the end of the urethra
-The inability to urinate can cause severe, electrolyte and blood chemical disturbances. In some instances this can be life threatening.

Clinical signs you might notice in your pet
-More frequent urination
-Urination outside of the litter box
-Straining to urinate
-Blood in the urine
-Persistent licking just under the tail base (perineal region)
-In severe cases, vomiting or collapse might occur

*VOMITING OR COLLAPSE SHOULD BE HANLDED AS AN EMERGENCY. TAKE YOUR CAT IMMEDIATELY TO THE CLOSEST VETERINARY EMERGENCY CLINIC.*

Diagnosis
-Careful physical examination looking for a large, firm bladder with minimal to no urine flow

Surgical treatment
-Appropriate for cats who cannot be unobstructed via passage of a catheter and/or cats who suffer from repeated blockages
-A new opening can be constructed in a much wider region of the urethra (perineal urethrostomy) that allows for easier passage of crystals and stones

Special postoperative care
-Close monitoring of urination habits looking for a gradual return to normal
-Antibiotics are administered and prescribed if infection is present
-A special collar is used to prevent patient from licking or chewing at the surgical site (Elizabethan or cervical collar)

Expected results with surgery
-Greatly reduced risk of urethral obstruction
-Your cats diet may need to be modified to control urinary tract inflammation and stone formation
-Future monitoring for urinary tract infections