Cat urinary tract obstruction

A cat urinary tract obstruction can lead to complete blockage. The routine treatment involves flushing the urinary tract and then performing catheterization. If the flushing is not successful, surgical treatment is considered, which usually involves urinary tract reconstruction. Cat urinary tract blockage can cause a large amount of urine retention in the bladder and may also lead to severe diseases such as acute renal failure. It is recommended to bring the cat to a pet hospital for related checks and treatment in a timely manner.

Causes of urinary tract obstruction

There are many causes of urinary tract obstruction in cats, with common causes being lithogenic. The etiology of urinary tract obstruction in cats is often due to urinary calculi blocking the urinary tract. Urinary calculi are mainly composed of calcium oxalate, magnesium ammonium phosphate, and urate salts. Because the male cat's urinary tract is narrower and longer than that of the female cat, urinary calculi are more common in male cats. In addition, urinary tract obstruction in cats may also be caused by urinary tract malformations or strictures.

Symptoms of urinary tract blockage

Cats with urinary tract obstruction may show vomiting, reduced appetite, and bladder enlargement. This is mainly due to the cat's stress response, causing them to unwillingly urinate, and the long-term accumulation of urine in the urinary tract leading to the formation of stones. Cats experiencing difficulty urinating will show signs of spending more time in the litter box, producing little or no urine. If there is pain, the cat may emit pitiful screams.

Prevention of urinary tract obstruction

Owners need to ensure that cats drink enough water daily. If the cat is unwilling to drink water, consider offering wet food. Monotonous diet is also one of the causes of urinary tract obstruction in cats, so owners need to ensure that the cat's nutrition is balanced. Preventing cats from developing urinary tract diseases is also a method of preventing urinary tract obstruction.