Understanding Urinary Blockages in Cats

(For Awareness Only – Not a Treatment Guide)

Urinary blockages are one of the most serious and time-sensitive conditions seen in male cats.
A blockage occurs when urine cannot pass normally through the urethra, the small tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

This is most common in male cats because their urethra is longer and narrower.

Although the outward signs may appear mild at first, urinary obstruction is considered a veterinary emergency, as the bladder can become over-distended and toxic substances may build up in the bloodstream.

Common Signs Noted in Veterinary Literature

Cats experiencing urinary obstruction may show:

• Straining in the litter box

Often mistaken for constipation.

• Frequent attempts to urinate with little or no output

• Crying, restlessness, or visible discomfort

• Licking the genital area excessively

• Small drops of blood in the litter or around the home

• Vomiting or lethargy (as toxins build up)

• Hiding or sudden behaviour changes

Some cats become unusually quiet, while others become agitated.

What Causes Urinary Blockages?

Multiple factors can contribute, including:

• Accumulation of urinary crystals or “grit”

• Swelling or narrowing of the urethra

• Mucus plugs formed during irritation

• Stress-related urinary tension

• Dehydration - due to an healthfully dry food diet.

• Inflammatory urinary conditions

In many cases, more than one factor is involved.

Why Male Cats Are More At Risk

The anatomy of male cats includes a very narrow urethral channel, especially near the tip of the penis.
Even minor swelling or debris can obstruct the flow of urine.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Mentioned in Research

While urinary blockages can occur in any cat, risk may increase with:

• Low water intake - due to feeding low moisture unhealthy biscuits - kibble

• Diets - dry food chemicals, poor quality protein and low in moisture

• Stress or household changes

• Inactivity

• Obesity - through incorrect diet.

• Holding urine for long periods

These factors do not cause blockages directly, but may influence overall urinary comfort and behaviour.

Natural pet botanicals are not intended to replace veterinary care or medication. 

SET OF

Formula 2
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) – Traditionally associated with immune vitality and regarded for supporting natural resilience
Reference: https://www.health.com/echinacea-benefits-7570763
Dandelion Leaf (Taraxacum officinale) – Traditionally linked with balance in fluids and gentle support for liver and digestive wellbeing
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) – Traditionally regarded for nourishment, vitality, and overall system balance
References: https://www.verywellhealth.com/urinary-tract-infections-symptoms-2328460
https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-benefits-of-alfalfa-4584280
Yarrow Flower (Achillea millefolium) – Traditionally associated with balance in circulation and regarded for its soothing, harmonising qualities
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) – Traditionally regarded for maintaining urinary tract comfort and balance
Reference: https://draxe.com/nutrition/uva-ursi-bearberry/
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – Traditionally linked with calm, comfort, and gentle balance in the system
Nettle (Urtica dioica) – Traditionally associated with natural vitality and regarded for its balancing effects on fluids and elimination   Reference: https://www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/herbs/stinging-nettle/
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) – Traditionally linked with resilience, energy, and natural balance
Reference: https://bebetternow.com/blog/bladder-control/frequent-urination/the-6-best-herbs-for-bladder-health
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) – Traditionally regarded for circulation, cleansing, and balance in wellbeing
Violet Leaves (Viola odorata) – Traditionally associated with natural cleansing and blood vitality
Reference: https://drhealthbenefits.com/herbal/leaves/health-benefits-violet-leaves
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) – Traditionally linked with vitality, energy, and natural stress resistance
Cornsilk (Zea mays) – Traditionally regarded for gentle urinary comfort and balance
References: https://cmjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13020-024-00884-3
https://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/features/herbal-remedies-overactive-bladder
Cryptolepis (Cryptolepis sanguinolenta) – Traditionally associated with resilience, cleansing, and natural balance
Reference: https://cmjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13020-024-00884-3
Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) – Traditionally regarded for resilience, vitality, and balance in wellbeing
Reference: https://draxe.com/nutrition/andrographis/
Juniper (Juniperus communis) – Traditionally linked with digestive balance, vitality, and natural cleansing properties
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) – Traditionally associated with supporting natural resilience and balance
Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) – Traditionally regarded for circulation and balance in liver and urinary wellbeing
Reference: https://www.asohm.com.au/agrimony-a-small-herb-with-mighty-power/
Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa) – Traditionally associated with vitality, balance, and replenishment of energy
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.

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These statements are for general wellbeing and educational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always seek veterinary or professional advice for specific health concerns.

DISCLAIMER
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your health care practitioners. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.