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Urinary Blockage in Male Cats: Why Straining Is an Emergency

A male cat straining in the litter tray with little or no urine may be blocked. Here is why it can be fatal within a day or two and what prevention looks like.

By Dr Samuel OkoyeVeterinary review: Dr Elena Marsh6 min readPublished 2026-09-29Updated 2026-09-29
Veterinarian gently examining a dog in a bright clinic

Go to a vet now if your cat cannot pass urine

Male cats have a narrow urethra that can become plugged with crystals, mucus or inflammation. When urine cannot leave, toxins and potassium build up in the blood and can stop the heart, often within 24 to 72 hours.

Owners often mistake straining for constipation. If a male cat is squatting repeatedly and producing nothing or only drops, treat it as an emergency, day or night.

Warning signs

  • Repeated trips to the litter tray with little or no urine
  • Crying or straining while trying to urinate
  • Licking the genital area
  • Blood in the urine
  • Hiding, vomiting, weakness or collapse (later signs)

What treatment involves

Under sedation or anaesthetic the vet passes a catheter to clear the blockage, then keeps it in place for a day or more while fluids correct blood chemistry. Cats that block repeatedly may need surgery to widen the urethra.

Reducing the risk

Many blockages are linked to feline idiopathic cystitis, where stress plays a large part. Prevention focuses on water and calm.

  • Increase water intake: wet food, water fountains, several bowls away from food
  • Provide one litter tray per cat plus one, kept clean, in quiet places
  • Reduce conflict between cats and give hiding and high resting places
  • Feed a prescription urinary diet if your vet recommends one
  • Keep your cat at a healthy weight
Dog and cat body condition progression from underweight to obese
Body condition is assessed by touch as well as appearance. Ask your veterinary team to score your individual pet.

Frequently asked questions

Can female cats get urinary blockages?
It is much rarer because their urethra is wider, but female cats still get cystitis and should see a vet if they strain or pass blood.
Can I wait until morning?
No. A blocked cat can die within hours to a couple of days. Contact an out-of-hours vet immediately.

References

  1. Feline lower urinary tract disease — International Cat Care
  2. Urethral obstruction in cats — Cornell Feline Health Center