Cat Can't Pee? Signs, Causes & Emergency Care

If your cat isn't peeing, it's a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Urinary blockage can be fatal within 24 to 48 hours if untreated. The faster you act, the better your cat's chance of recovery.

You'll often notice your cat straining in the litter box without producing urine, crying in pain, or repeatedly crouching. They may lick their genital area or seem restless and anxious. As toxins build up, your cat can become lethargic, lose appetite, or even vomit.

Male cats are more likely to suffer from urinary blockages because their urethra is longer and narrower, making it easier for crystals or mucus plugs to cause an obstruction.

• A cat not peeing is a true medical emergency. A urinary blockage becomes life-threatening within 24 to 48 hours if untreated.
• Male cats are more at risk because their urethras are longer and narrower, but female cats can be affected too.
• Watch for warning signs: straining or crying in the litter box, frequent attempts to urinate with little to no output, and excessive licking of the genital area.
• Seek veterinary care immediately if your cat hasn't peed in 12 hours or shows signs of distress or pain.

• Mucus plugs and urinary crystals can block the urethra and stop urine flow.
• Bladder or urethral stones may form from minerals and move down the urinary tract, creating irritation and blockage.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria) often indicates irritation, inflammation, or stones.
• These obstructions are especially painful and can cause dangerous swelling and infection.

• Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is a broad term covering several conditions that cause inflammation and difficulty urinating.
• Stress is a major factor that triggers inflammation in the bladder and urethra.
• Cystitis, or bladder inflammation, is often linked to microscopic mineral formation and urinary discomfort.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) irritate the bladder, causing pain, frequent urination, and possible obstruction.
• Kidney disease can reduce urine production and toxin filtration.
• Tumors or prostate enlargement may physically block the urethra.
• Spinal or nerve damage can interfere with the signals that control urination.

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your cat:

• Has not urinated in 12 hours or more
• Strains or cries in the litter box
• Produces little to no urine
• Shows signs of pain, vomiting, or lethargy
• Has a swollen or hard abdomen

These symptoms indicate a possible blockage that can lead to kidney failure or death within 24 hours. Do not attempt home remedies.

Treatment begins with stabilizing your cat and relieving the blockage. Hospitalization is often necessary to ensure proper care and monitoring.

• Physical exam and lab tests: A vet checks for a full, firm bladder and evaluates kidney function and electrolyte levels.
• Imaging (X-ray or ultrasound): Helps locate stones, obstructions, or other abnormalities.
• Urinary catheterization: Performed under sedation or anesthesia to clear the blockage and empty the bladder.
• IV fluids: Used to rehydrate and restore electrolyte balance.
• Medication: Pain relief, antibiotics, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed.
• Surgery: In recurrent cases, a perineal urethrostomy may be recommended to create a wider urinary passage.

Preventing recurrence is as important as treating the initial blockage.

• Manage stress: Cats are sensitive to environmental changes. Use enrichment (toys, cat trees) and pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) to keep them calm.
• Encourage hydration: Offer wet or canned food (about 78% water) and provide a water fountain.
• Follow the litter box rule: One box per cat, plus one extra (N+1), in quiet and clean locations.
• Veterinary diets: Special formulas, such as Royal Canin Urinary SO or Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare, can help dissolve crystals and prevent stones.
• Monitor your cat's weight: Obesity increases the risk of urinary issues. Regular play and portion control help maintain a healthy weight.

What should I do if my cat can't pee?

• Call your vet or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait or attempt to treat it at home.

Why is my cat peeing blood?

• Blood in urine can signal infection, stones, or inflammation from Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD).

Can dehydration cause urination problems?

• Yes. Dehydration can make urine more concentrated, increasing the risk of crystal and stone formation.

How can I get my cat to drink more water?

• Use a pet fountain, offer canned food, and place multiple water bowls around your home.

Can stress cause urinary issues in cats?

• Yes. Cats under chronic stress are more likely to develop FLUTD or cystitis. Enrichment and a stable routine can help.