What Should I Do If My Pet Cannot Urinate?

Maintaining proper urinary function is crucial for your pet's overall health and well-being. Regular urination helps to flush out toxins, prevent urinary tract infections, and ensure the proper functioning of the kidneys and bladder. When your pet is unable to urinate, it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt veterinary attention.
 

Common Causes of Urination Problems in Pets

Urination problems in pets can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
 

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial or fungal infections in the urinary tract can cause inflammation, pain, and difficulty urinating.
   

• Bladder Stones: Mineral deposits in the bladder can block the flow of urine and lead to a complete inability to urinate.
   

• Urethral Obstruction: Blockages in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, can prevent your pet from being able to urinate.
   

• Neurological Disorders: Conditions that affect the nerves controlling the bladder and urinary system, such as spinal cord injuries or diabetes, can disrupt the normal urination process.
   

• Cancer: Tumors or growths in the urinary tract can physically obstruct the flow of urine or interfere with the normal functioning of the bladder and kidneys.
   

• Trauma: Injuries to the abdomen or pelvis can damage the urinary system and prevent your pet from being able to urinate.
   

Identifying the underlying cause of your pet's urination problem is crucial for providing the appropriate treatment. In many cases, prompt veterinary intervention is necessary to prevent serious complications and ensure your pet's well-being.
 

What to Do if Your Pet is Unable to Urinate

When your pet is unable to urinate, the first step is to seek the care of a veterinarian. The veterinarian can diagnose and treat a wide range of urinary tract issues in pets, using a combination of physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and specialized treatments. Delaying treatment can lead to life-threatening complications. Some key signs that your pet may be experiencing a urination emergency include:
 

• Straining to urinate without producing any urine
   

• Whining, crying, or exhibiting signs of pain or discomfort when trying to urinate
   

• Lethargy, loss of appetite, or other signs of illness
   

• Abdominal swelling or tenderness
   

During the initial examination, your veterinarian will likely perform the following:
 

• Physical Examination: The vet will thoroughly examine your pet, focusing on the abdomen, urinary tract, and any areas of discomfort or swelling.
   

• Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the suspected cause, the vet may recommend various tests, such as urine analysis, blood work, X-rays, or ultrasounds, to identify the underlying issue.
   

• Urinary Catheterization: In cases of a complete urinary blockage, the vet may need to insert a small catheter into the urethra to help drain the bladder and relieve the obstruction.
   

Once the cause of the urination problem has been identified, your veterinarian will develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include:
 

• Medication: Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other pharmaceuticals to address underlying infections, inflammation, or other conditions.
   

• Dietary Changes: Modifications to your pet's diet to help dissolve or prevent the formation of bladder stones.
   

• Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions, correct anatomical abnormalities, or address more severe urinary tract issues.
   

If your pet is experiencing a urination emergency, contact Waco Animal Emergency Clinic right away. Visit our facility in Waco, Texas, or call (254) 752-6100 today.