Managing urethral obstruction in male cats: a practical guide and literature review

Authors: de Moraes RS, Ferreira JF, Maia SR, Azevedo MGP, Benevenuto LGD, Ribeiro D, Melchert A, Giuffrida R, Andreatti Filho RL, Okamoto AS, Guimaraes-Okamoto PTC
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume Ahead of Print, Issue Ahead of Print, Dec 2025
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cat
Article class: Review Article

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Abstract:

Urethral obstruction in domestic cats contributes significantly to the caseload of companion animal emergency care. The risk factors, multifactorial causes, and lethality of obstruction have driven research in this field in the twenty-first century. Uraemic syndrome, metabolic acidosis, and electrolyte disturbances resulting from interruption of urinary flow pose a life-threatening risk to feline patients, necessitating expert veterinary care. Additionally, the complex and poorly understood pathophysiology of urethral obstruction leads to high recurrence rates. Consequently, a considerable number of scientific studies have been conducted in recent years, yielding advancements in the clinical management of feline urethral obstruction. Ongoing modifications in the therapeutic landscape thus require constant updates for veterinary professionals handling obstructed cats.

This article constitutes a robust narrative review aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of studies published between 2010 and 2025 regarding the clinical management of urethral obstruction in male cats. The focus lies in detailed discussions of diagnosis, urethral unblocking procedures, patient stabilisation and monitoring, and post-unblocking environmental and pharmacological management. This review constitutes a practice guide enhanced by three detailed clinical algorithms and highlights existing knowledge gaps in the clinical management of obstructed cats. This synthesis empowers veterinarians to manage feline urethral obstructions and conduct the decision-making process while also promoting discussion and future research on this topic.

KEYWORDS: Azotaemia, decompressive cystocentesis, indwelling catheter, urethral unblocking, multimodal environmental modification

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