Have you noticed that your cat suddenly isn't urinating? After checking the litter box throughout the day, it may have become even more apparent that something was happening because the litter was untouched. Even if your cat appears to be acting normal, schedule an urgent appointment with the pet hospital because a lack of urination could indicate a severe and life-threatening blockage has developed.

What Is a Blockage and How Can One Develop?

A urinary blockage occurs due to an accumulation of stones and crystal-like fragments that build up in the urethra, making it difficult for the cat to urinate. While male cats are more likely to experience a blockage than female cats, any cat can experience this problem at some point. One of the reasons a blockage develops is due to a lack of water in a cat's diet. If your cat enjoys more dry food over wet and doesn't drink much water, this can cause the blockage to develop. Unfortunately, many foods made for cats and marketed to pet owners in traditional department stores contain added minerals that can also increase the chances of a cat developing a urinary blockage.

Is Treatment Possible for Urinary Blockage?

Treatment is available for cats with urinary blockages, but they must receive that treatment quickly. If not, the blockage can lead to excruciating pain that eventually causes the animal to pass. By bringing your cat to the pet hospital immediately, a veterinarian can insert a catheter to help the animal urinate with minimal pain. 

Most vets will leave the catheter in for a while, meaning your pet might need to spend a night or two at the pet hospital for treatment. If this is not the first time your cat has experienced a blockage, the veterinarian may recommend a perineal urethrostomy, a surgery designed to help provide relief and keep cats from experiencing these painful blockages again.

Receive High-Quality Care for Your Cat at the Pet Hospital

Don't wait to get professional help if your cat isn't urinating. You can bring your furry friend to the pet hospital, where a veterinarian will examine the cat's condition and possibly insert a catheter to help with a urinary blockage. Taking urgent action is critical in this situation because urinary blockages in cats can cause severe pain and eventually lead to the animal's death. By acting swiftly, you can ensure your cat gets relief and potentially save the animal's life.

Contact a company like Indian Creek Veterinary Hospital to learn more.