Introduction
- Causes : urolithiasis, urethral plugs, trauma, neoplasia, extra-urethral mass, idiopathic inflammation, iatrogenic intervention.
- Signs : straining (stranguria)
and difficulty associated with urination/variable flow. - Diagnosis : clinical signs and physical examination.
- Treatment : priority is to correct metabolic abnormalities and stabilize animal prior to definitive management.
- Prognosis : depends on cause and extent of renal damage.
Diagnosis
Clinical signs
- Distended bladder palpable; cannot express urine with gentle pressure.
Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis
- Urolithiasis
; urethral matrix-crystalline plug. - Idiopathic cystitis/urethritis.
- Iatrogenic intervention.
- Urethral trauma.
- Urethral neoplasia .
- Extraluminal mass.
Sequelae
Prognosis
- Good prognosis for early treatment.
- Urolithiasis has a high incidence of recurrence, without dietary changes.
Expected response to treatment
- Ability to pass urine normally.
- Resolution of uremia and electrolyte abnormalities if present.
Reasons for treatment failure
- Delayed treatment allowing renal failure to develop.
- Inability to remove blockage.
- Stenosis recurring at site of trauma, urolith, or urethral tear.
Sources
Publications
Refereed papers
- Gerber B, Eichenberger S & Reusch C E (2008)Guarded long-term prognosis in male cats with urethral obstruction.J Fel Med Surg10, 16-23 PubMed.
- Lee J A & Drobatz K J (2003)Characterization of the clinical characteristics, electrolytes, acid-base, and renal parameters in male cats with urethral obstruction.J Vet Emerg Crit Care.13(4), 227.DOI
- Foster S F, Hunt G B & Malik R (1999)Congenital urethral anomaly in a kitten.JESFM1, 61-64.
