Urethral blockages are common in cats, particularly amongst males, and have the potential to be a life-threatening emergency. However, with prompt identification of the symptoms and professional intervention by your vet, it’s possible for your male feline to make a full recovery. Here’s what you need to know about blocked male cats and what to do if your furbaby is affected.
 

What causes a urinary blockage?

There can be a number of different things responsible for causing a blocked urethra in male cats. Some of these include:

Bladder stones. Also known as urolithiasis, this is where deposits found in the bladder can clump together to form a blockage. Bladder stones can account for as many as 80-90% of cases of urinary blockages.

Urethral plugs. A urethral plug is an obstruction found in the urethra of male cats and is formed by an accumulation of proteins, cells, crystals, and other debris. This plug cannot be passed and requires medical intervention to remove it.

Urinary tract tumor. These tumors are a type of cancer that develops from the uncontrolled growth of cells within the urinary system. Bladder tumors are by far the most common type of urinary tract tumor. While tumors can develop in the urethra itself, primary cancers of this kind are uncommon. If a tumor is found in the urinary tract, it is normally because it has metastasized from another location.
 

Symptoms of a urinary blockage

Being able to identify a urinary blockage is essential so that you can get your male cat the medical attention that he needs as quickly as possible. The most common sign of a blocked cat is your furbaby going to the litter box to urinate, getting into position, but not actually producing any urine. Many males also seem uncomfortable or in pain and may even yowl when they try to empty their bladder.

If the blockage persists without medical intervention, your cat will develop an electrolyte imbalance. This causes a range of noticeable symptoms including:
 

• Vomiting

• Hiding

• Avoiding human contact

• Slow heart rate

• Altered mental state/unusual behaviors

If your male cat exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to get them to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Don’t wait for a routine appointment to come available, take them to the out-of-hours service if you need to.
 

How is a urinary blockage diagnosed?

Your vet will conduct a thorough examination of your male cat and will be able to form an accurate diagnosis based on a number of different factors. These could include:
 

• Their medical history

• A physical examination

• Blood test

• Urine analysis

• Abdominal x-ray or ultrasound

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment can commence immediately.
 

How is a blocked male cat treated?

Your cat will need to be hospitalized for their urinary blockage to be treated. The first priority will be to empty his bladder, and this will be done using a urinary catheter. At the same time, your cat will have an intravenous catheter placed which will deliver pain relief, fluids, and other important medications such as sedatives, which will keep them calm and comfortable while treatment takes place. Once their bladder has been drained, the catheter may be left in for several days which will enable the urethra to heal and your cat to recover.

You should expect your cat to stay in the hospital until they are able to pass urine again freely. After this, you will be allowed to take them home where you may have to administer medication including antibiotics and pain relief. You may also be recommended to place your male cat onto a special diet that is designed to boost their urinary health.
 

If you are concerned about a blocked male cat, don’t delay. Seek professional intervention immediately by contacting our expert veterinary team.