References
Urethral obstruction in the male cat
Abstract
Urethral obstruction in male cats is a common condition that can result in potentially life threatening complications. Veterinary nurses play a fundamental role in the nursing management and can greatly improve client education of these cases. It is important that veterinary nurses have an understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical signs and nursing interventions when dealing with cases of feline urethral obstruction to enable effective treatment.
Urethral obstruction is a problem that occurs predominantly in male cats of any age, breed and gender. This is because the urethra of a male cat is much longer and narrower than that of a female cat, thus is more susceptible to becoming blocked. Other factors that may influence urethral obstruction are being middle-aged, overweight, neutered and an indoor cat (International Cat Care, 2016). The blocked male cat is a familiar case in both general and emergency veterinary practice.
Cats with urethral obstruction will typically show signs of urinary tract inflammation and discomfort. Signs may vary from mild to severe. Systemic signs are often not present until 24 hours after the urethra becomes blocked. The patient may present with the following signs:
Urethral obstruction can be a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. If left untreated, it can cause acute kidney failure, electrolyte imbalance and potentially death within 3–6 days (Brooks, 2017).
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