My cat cannot urinate, licks itself and cries - what's wrong? - briefly
If your cat is unable to urinate, is excessively licking itself, and crying, it may be experiencing a urinary obstruction or blockage. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.
My cat cannot urinate, licks itself and cries - what's wrong? - in detail
If your cat is unable to urinate, excessively licks itself, and is crying, it could be indicative of several underlying issues. It's crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly as these symptoms can signal serious health problems.
One possible cause is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are common in cats and can make urination painful or impossible. Other symptoms of a UTI include frequent attempts to urinate without producing much, passing only small amounts of urine, or blood in the urine. If your cat has a UTI, it might lick the genital area more frequently to alleviate discomfort, which could also contribute to excessive grooming and associated crying.
Another potential issue is a urinary blockage. This is an emergency situation where crystals or stones form in the bladder and prevent urine from passing through the urethra. Male cats are more prone to this due to their longer, narrower urethras. Symptoms include straining to urinate without producing any urine, frequent attempts to urinate, and crying out in pain. If your cat is experiencing a blockage, it may also excessively lick its genital area in an attempt to relieve the discomfort.
Bladder stones or crystals can also cause these symptoms. These formations in the bladder can irritate the lining and make urination painful or difficult. Cats with bladder stones might exhibit similar behaviors, including increased grooming of the genital area and crying due to discomfort.
Inflammation of the bladder (cystitis) is another possible cause. This condition can be brought on by infections, stress, or other irritants. Symptoms include frequent attempts to urinate, straining to produce only small amounts of urine, and blood in the urine. Cats with cystitis might also lick their genital area more frequently and cry due to the discomfort.
Finally, psychological stress can sometimes manifest as excessive grooming and crying in cats. While this is less likely to cause urination problems directly, it's important to consider all potential factors affecting your cat's health.
Regardless of the underlying cause, prompt veterinary attention is essential. Your vet will perform a thorough examination, including a physical checkup, blood tests, and possibly an ultrasound or X-ray to diagnose the issue accurately. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include antibiotics for infections, surgery to remove blockages, special diets to manage stones or crystals, or stress management techniques if psychological factors are at play.
In summary, while the exact cause of your cat's symptoms requires a professional diagnosis, it's clear that prompt veterinary intervention is necessary. By addressing these issues early, you can help ensure your cat's health and well-being.