Urethral Obstruction
Urethral Obstruction
The urethra is a tube like structure that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Sometimes, mineral crystals or stones form in the urethra and block the path to outside the body. The blockage is called a urethral plug. Because a male cat’s urethra is longer and more narrow than a female’s, urethral plugs are most often seen in males (whether or not they are neutered). Once a plug has formed, urine fills up in the bladder. This is not only painful for the cat, but can quickly cause kidney damage. The kidney’s job is to release poisonous wastes from the body; when kidneys don’t function properly, these poisons accumulate in the bloodstream. The final result, if not treated, is death.
Prevention of Urethral Obstruction
The cause of urethral plugs is not fully known. Plugs could result from a combination of poor diet and highly concentrated, alkaline (low acid) urine. All cats should be encouraged to exercise and be kept at a trim, healthy weight. Feed your cat a high quality cat food and entice him to urinate frequently by keeping his litter box clean and always accessible. He should have constant access to plenty of fresh water. If your cat is using his litter box often, but with no or little resulting urine, he may have a urethral obstruction. Other signs of obstruction include depression, weakness, vomiting and lack of appetite, dehydration and collapse. If any of these signs occur in your cat, seek veterinary attention immediately.
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