Male Cats & Urinary Blockages: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

A urinary blockage in a male cat is more than uncomfortable—it’s a medical emergency. Left untreated, it can cause kidney failure, severe pain, and even death within 24 to 48 hours.

If you’ve ever seen your cat straining in the litter box or crying out in discomfort, don’t wait. Knowing the early signs—and what to do next—can save your cat’s life.

What Is a Urinary Blockage?

A urinary blockage occurs when the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder) becomes obstructed—often by crystals, mucus plugs, or inflammation. Because male cats have a longer, narrower urethra than females, they’re more prone to complete blockages.

When urine can’t exit the bladder, toxins build up quickly in the bloodstream. This leads to intense pain, electrolyte imbalances, and kidney shutdown. Learn more from iCatCare’s guide on feline urethral obstruction.

What Causes Urinary Blockages in Male Cats?

Crystals and Urinary Stones

Minerals like struvite or calcium oxalate can crystallize in the urine. If enough form, they may clump together to block the urethra. Diet, dehydration, and urine pH all play a role. For an overview, visit the ACVS page on urinary stones in small animals.

Mucus Plugs

These are thick, sticky combinations of mucus and inflammatory cells that block urine flow—often triggered by stress or bladder inflammation.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Though more common in females, UTIs in male cats can worsen inflammation or contribute to crystal formation. Learn more via the Cornell UTI guide.

Urethral Spasms

Pain, anxiety, or inflammation may cause the urethral muscles to clamp down, even if no physical plug is present.

Obesity and Low Activity

Overweight, sedentary cats are more prone to urinary tract problems, likely due to inflammation and less water intake.

Red Flag Symptoms: When to Seek Immediate Care

A blockage can go from uncomfortable to life-threatening in hours. Look for:

  • Frequent trips to the litter box with little or no urine
  • Straining, vocalizing, or signs of pain while urinating
  • Licking the genital area excessively
  • Blood in the urine (if any is passed)
  • A hard, swollen belly
  • Vomiting, listlessness, or hiding
  • Collapse or unresponsiveness in late stages

If your cat is trying but unable to urinate, that’s an emergency. Visit your nearest ER immediately.

Typical Steps to Treat Urinary Blockages

Initial Stabilization

The vet focuses on pain relief, IV fluids, and stabilizing blood chemistry. Blood tests help check kidney values and life-threatening electrolyte changes, especially potassium levels.

Urinary Catheterization

Under sedation, your vet will  insert a catheter into the urethra to gently flush and remove the obstruction. The bladder is rinsed with sterile fluids to eliminate crystals, mucus, and toxins. Most cats are hospitalized for 24–72 hours afterward for close monitoring.

Surgical Intervention (PU Surgery)

For cats with repeated blockages, your vet may recommend a Perineal Urethrostomy (PU)—a procedure that widens the urinary opening to reduce the chance of future obstructions. Learn more about PU surgery from Hill’s Pet.

At-Home Recovery and Monitoring

After treatment, cats go home with:

  • Pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs
  • A prescription urinary health diet
  • Possible antibiotics (if infection is present)

Watch for any return of straining, lethargy, or unusual bathroom behavior. Any recurrence should be treated as another emergency.

Long-Term Prevention: How to Reduce the Risk of Recurrence

Hydration Is Key

Cats aren’t always great at drinking water, so help them stay hydrated:

  • Feed mostly wet food
  • Use water fountains to encourage drinking
  • Keep multiple bowls of fresh water throughout the home

Urinary-Specific Diets

Prescription diets help manage urine pH and prevent crystals from forming. Our team can recommend the right food based on your cat’s specific needs.

Stress Reduction

FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease) is often linked to stress. Support your cat by:

  • Using pheromone diffusers like Feliway
  • Keeping litter boxes clean and accessible
  • Offering interactive toys, perches, and quiet hiding spots

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity increases the risk of urinary inflammation and metabolic imbalances. Keep your cat active with daily play and portion-controlled meals.

Routine Vet Care

Preventive care matters. Annual exams, urinalysis, and bloodwork can detect early signs of urinary problems—before they become emergencies.

Your Cat Can’t Tell You It’s an Emergency

Urinary blockages in male cats are fast-moving, painful, and potentially fatal. But with quick action and the right care, they are also highly treatable. The most important thing you can do as a cat parent is to know the signs, trust your instincts, and never wait if something seems off.

At Animal Urgent Care of Oconomowoc, we understand how frightening these situations can be—and we’re here to help you navigate them with confidence. Don’t second-guess a serious symptom. When it comes to urinary blockages, acting fast can make all the difference.