Urethral Obstruction in Cats

These flashcards cover key concepts, facts, and clinical practices regarding urethral obstruction in cats, specifically focused on diagnosis, treatment, and post-care management.

What are the common signs of urethral obstruction in male cats?

Signs include vomiting, straining in the litter box, low body temperature, low pulse rate, vocalization on abdominal palpation, and a large turgid bladder.

What factors increase the risk of urethral obstruction in male cats?

Indoor living, obesity, dry diet, and recent stressors.

What is a common cause of urethral obstruction in male cats?

Idiopathic urethral plugs related to anxiety and altered neuro humoral factors.

What should you always do upon examining a sick male cat?

Palpate the bladder to check for possible urethral obstruction.

What are some emotional stressors that might lead to a urethral obstruction?

Moving to a new home or the introduction of a new baby in the household.

What is hyperkalemia and why is it a concern in cats with urethral obstruction?

High potassium levels can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial standstill.

What is the preferred analgesic for cats with urethral obstruction?

Buprenorphine is a commonly used analgesic.

Why should NSAIDs be avoided in cases of urethral obstruction?

NSAIDs can impair kidney perfusion, especially if kidney function is uncertain.

What does an ECG show in cats with hyperkalemia?

It may show atrial standstill or bradyarrhythmia.

What is the significance of a distended bladder in a cat with urethral obstruction?

It indicates an inability to urinate, which can lead to serious complications.

What should be monitored post-obstruction for a cat like Waffles?

Electrolytes, particularly potassium and kidney values.

What role does calcium gluconate play in urgent care for hyperkalemia?

It provides cardio protection but does not lower potassium levels.

How can potassium be effectively lowered in a hyperkalemic cat?

Insulin and dextrose can be given to transport potassium into cells.

What precaution should be taken before catheterizing a cat with urethral obstruction?

Sedate the cat to relax the urethra.

What procedure is performed to relieve a severely distended bladder?

Decompressive cystocentesis can be done to relieve bladder tension.

What is the importance of monitoring urine output once a urinary catheter is placed?

To assess kidney function and prevent dehydration.

What common dietary modification may help prevent future urethral obstructions?

Switching to a canned food diet to increase water intake.

What is the prognosis for cats after treatment of urethral obstruction?

Over 90% of cats survive to discharge, but there is a 50% chance of reobstruction.

What changes can improve a cat's likelihood of favorable outcomes after an obstruction?

Litter box hygiene, increased water sources, and decreased stress.

What is one rare cause of urethral obstruction that should be considered?

Neoplasia (tumors), though it is very uncommon.

When is it appropriate to remove a urinary catheter in a recovering cat?

When azotemia resolves, urine output normalizes, and there is no blood in urine.

What can be a major issue if a cat experiences a post-obstructive diuresis?

Risk of dehydration if fluids are not adjusted based on urine output.

How do you monitor for hyperkalemia in a cat after initial treatment?

Check potassium levels every 2-4 hours until they normalize.

What is the anticipated recovery time for azotemia following urethral obstruction treatment?

Azotemia may take 48 hours to resolve.

Why might a cat require surgery after a urethral obstruction?

If there is a urethral tear or if tissue does not heal after five days.

What is an effective non-drug related practice for stress reduction in cats?

Providing environmental enrichment and playtime.

What is the typical age range for cats presenting with urethral obstruction?

Most commonly between 1 and 7 years old.

What laboratory values indicate a need for fluid therapy in cats with urethral obstruction?

Elevated creatinine and BUN indicating azotemia.

How are urethral plugs most commonly characterized?

They are typically idiopathic and related to stress or underlying disease.

What is the function of terbutaline in managing hyperkalemia?

It is a beta agonist that may help lower potassium levels but can also increase heart rate.

What should owners expect post-treatment regarding their cat's behavior?

The cat may appear sedated or silly due to analgesic effects.

What is the role of client education in managing cats prone to urethral obstruction?

Owners should be informed about litter box hygiene, diet, and stress reduction.

When observing for electrolyte fluctuation post-treatment, what trend is ideal?

Electrolyte levels should stabilize and normalize over time.

What is one method to confirm a diagnosis of uroabdomen in a cat?

Compare creatinine levels between abdominal effusion and serum.