Urethral re-obstruction in the cat: what to say at discharge
3-year-old neutered male cat going home after two days with a catheter for a urethral plug. He urinates well without the catheter and biochemistry is normal.
Which information for the owner is correct?
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A. After a well-treated episode recurrence is exceptional, so nothing needs to change at home
Re-obstruction is common: a substantial proportion of cats block again, and home measures (water, wet food, environment) help reduce it.
B. Two weeks of antibiotics after discharge reduces the risk of re-obstruction
Most plug obstructions are associated with idiopathic cystitis, which is sterile. Antibiotics do not reduce re-obstruction and are only indicated if infection is shown.
C. If he blocks again, a perineal urethrostomy should be performed instead of catheterising again
A second obstruction alone is not an indication for surgery. Urethrostomy is considered for repeated obstructions despite good medical management or irreversible urethral lesions.
D. The risk of re-obstruction is substantial, especially in the first days and weeks: check daily that he urinates and return urgently if he strains without passing urine
Correct. A notable percentage of cats re-obstruct, most often soon after discharge. Teaching the owner to recognise it prevents the cat returning with hyperkalaemia again.
lightbulb Key takeaway
At discharge, give written instructions: check the litter tray (size and number of urine clumps), wet food, more water, MEMO and a few days of analgesia. 'Straining and not passing urine' is an emergency, not something to wait on.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.