Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, which is why it’s so important for pet owners to recognize the signs of serious health conditions. One of the most dangerous—and unfortunately common—emergencies we see in cats is a urinary blockage (often referred to as a “blocked cat”).

What Is a Blocked Cat?

A urinary blockage occurs when a cat’s urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) becomes obstructed. This prevents the cat from urinating properly. Because the bladder continues to fill while nothing can exit, toxins and pressure build up in the body. Without immediate treatment, a blockage can quickly become life-threatening.

Why It’s So Dangerous

• Rapid progression:

  A cat can go from “straining in the litterbox” to critically ill in as little as 24–48 hours.

• Painful and stressful:

  Urinary blockages are extremely uncomfortable, leading to vocalization, restlessness, or hiding.

• Life-threatening complications:

  Left untreated, bladder rupture and kidney failure can occur.

Signs Your Cat May Be Blocked

Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Straining in the litterbox with little or no urine produced

• Multiple, unsuccessful trips to the litterbox

• Crying out when trying to urinate

• Excessive licking of the genital area

• Lethargy, loss of appetite, or hiding

Even if you’re unsure, it’s always safer to have your cat checked—because early intervention can save lives.

How Stress Plays a Role

Stress doesn’t cause every blockage, but it can contribute. Cats are sensitive to environmental changes, and stress can influence urinary tract health. Things like moving, new pets or family members, or changes in daily routine can all be triggers.

Food for Thought: Back-to-School Stress

This time of year often comes with big changes in household rhythm—kids heading back to school, family members out of the house for longer hours, and less overall activity at home. While this adjustment may feel routine to us, it can be a source of stress for our feline companions. For some cats, that stress may even play a role in urinary health concerns.

What You Can Do

• Keep litterboxes clean and easy to access

• Maintain consistent feeding and play schedules

• Provide enrichment with toys, scratching posts, and safe resting spots

• Reach out to your veterinarian at the

  first sign of urinary changes

At Mountainside Animal Emergency & Specialty, we’re available 24/7 to provide care if your cat shows signs of urinary blockage or any other emergency.