{"id":128288,"date":"2025-11-21T19:53:57","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T19:53:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/?p=128288"},"modified":"2025-11-21T21:51:51","modified_gmt":"2025-11-21T21:51:51","slug":"urethral-catheterization-of-the-obstructed-male-cat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/urology-renal-medicine\/urethral-catheterization-of-the-obstructed-male-cat\/","title":{"rendered":"Urethral Catheterization of the Obstructed Male Cat"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"su-spacer\" style=\"height:20px\"><\/div><div class=\"su-note\"  style=\"border-color:#d8d8d8;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\"><div class=\"su-note-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"background-color:#f2f2f2;border-color:#ffffff;color:#333333;border-radius:3px;-moz-border-radius:3px;-webkit-border-radius:3px;\"><b>Abstract<\/b><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Treatment of the male cat with an obstructed urethra requires swift medical intervention, including placement of a urethral catheter. Options for urethral catheterization are broad, but supplies for catheterization can normally be found in any veterinary clinic. Sedation is usually required, and use of a sacrococcygeal block can improve patient comfort and relax muscles for unblocking. Urethral catheterization can be difficult; however, use of hydropulsion can facilitate the procedure. Risks are uncommon, with urethral tearing caused by catheterization being the most prevalent. When catheterization is not possible, decompressive cystocentesis can be performed.<\/p>\n<p><b>Take-Home Points <\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Many options for catheters exist, but soft urethral catheters reduce the risk for urethral trauma.<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Red rubber catheters have the benefit of being soft and minimizing urethral trauma while also being able to be left indwelling after initial unblocking.<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Most patients will require sedation; however, patients in critical or moribund condition usually tolerate catheterization with minimal to no sedation (opioids alone or neuroleptanalgesia).<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">A sacrococcygeal block will improve patient comfort and ease unblocking.<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Urethral tears are uncommon but decrease chances of survival to discharge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">U<\/span><span class=\"s2\">rethral obstruction is a common veterinary emergency for the male feline patient. Untreated, urethral obstruction leads to azotemia (as uremic toxins are not expelled from the body), life-threatening hyperkalemia, bladder necrosis and\/or uroabdomen, and, ultimately, death.<sup>1<\/sup> Emergency treatment includes fluids for renal perfusion and systemic shock, cardioprotectants, multimodal therapy <\/span>to treat hyperkalemia, and quick urethral catheterization<span class=\"s2\"> to restore normal urine flow.<sup>2<\/sup> Although protocols exist for managing urethral obstruction without urethral catheterization, risks are severe and standard medical management options continue to rely on successful catheterization.<sup>3<\/sup> A skilled veterinary nurse should be able to perform catheterization quickly and efficiently, according to each state\u2019s Veterinary Practice Act and under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, while minimizing patient risks. This article provides a step-by-step approach to the procedure, which is also demonstrated in <\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">VIDEO 1<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-youtube su-u-responsive-media-yes\"><iframe width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/27EYKEw-DHE?\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen allow=\"autoplay; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture\" title=\"Video 1. Urethral Catheterization of an Obstructed Male Cat.\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 1: Gather Supplies<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Supplies for urethral catheterization vary widely based on clinic inventory and personal preference. However, cats that are difficult to unblock may require a broad selection of catheter options and techniques. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s2\">Catheter options are as follows (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 1<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">): <\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Red rubber catheters, 3.5 and 5 Fr (e.g., Covidien)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Semirigid polypropylene catheter (e.g., Cardinal Argyle Tomcat) <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Soft polytetrafluoroethylene\/polyurethane catheter (e.g., Mila Tomcat, SurgiVet Slippery Sam Tomcat)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Stainless steel olive-tip urethral catheter (e.g., Jorgensen KatKath Tomcat) <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p5\"><span class=\"s2\">22- and 20-G IV catheters<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_128291\" style=\"width: 361px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig1.png\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-128291\" class=\" wp-image-128291\" src=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"351\" height=\"263\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig1.png 888w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig1-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig1-768x576.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 351px) 100vw, 351px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-128291\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">FIGURE 1. Selection of urinary catheters.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s2\">Sterile supplies needed are as follows (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 2<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Lubricant packets<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Sterile gloves <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Cutting needle<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">3-0 suture material<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Urinary collection bag <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p4\"><span class=\"s2\">Supplies for hydropulsion<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p6\"><span class=\"s2\">Sterile bladder flush (0.9% saline or sterile water) in 12- or 20-mL syringes (2 to 3 syringes)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"p7\"><span class=\"s2\">Optional: Luer Lock adapter (e.g., SurgiVet Little Herbert)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_128292\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig2.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-128292\" class=\" wp-image-128292\" src=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig2.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig2.png 864w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig2-300x214.png 300w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig2-768x548.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-128292\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">FIGURE 2. Example of sterile supplies (not inclusive) used for unblocking.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">After the supplies are ready, set up the procedure table with traditional monitoring equipment and flow-by oxygen (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 3<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">). All patients should be monitored to the extent available, which should minimally include electrocardiography and blood pressure monitoring. A small V-shaped trough may be helpful for positioning the patient; however, similar positioning may be accomplished with sandbags or rolled towels.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_128293\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig3.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-128293\" class=\" wp-image-128293\" src=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig3.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig3.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig3-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-128293\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">FIGURE 3. Urinary obstruction patient sedated with monitoring.<\/p><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 2: Sedate the Patient<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Most patients will require sedation, with the exception of moribund patients, for which opioids alone may suffice. For alert patients, sedation protocols vary according to patient stability. Critical patients typically tolerate unblocking with neuroleptanalgesia, which combines the use of an opioid and benzodiazepine (e.g., methadone and midazolam). More stable patients typically require heavier sedation. Fluid therapy should be administered before, during, and after the procedure.<b> <\/b><\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">TABLE 1<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\"> reviews common drug combinations and dosages. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Some practitioners prefer to use inhalation anesthesia; however, no benefit has been shown for inhalation anesthesia compared with sedation.<sup>4<\/sup> In the author\u2019s experience, use of a sacrococcygeal block renders inhalation anesthesia unnecessary. However, if inhalation anesthesia is preferred due to patient stability, the patient should undergo endotracheal intubation and full anesthesia monitoring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Table1.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-128301\" src=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Table1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"754\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Table1.png 754w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Table1-300x213.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 754px) 100vw, 754px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 3: Administer a Sacrococcygeal Block and Prepare the Patient<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Patient preparation first involves performing a sacrococcygeal block for patient comfort and improved muscle relaxation for unblocking.<sup>5<\/sup> Information on how to perform a sacrococcygeal block can be found at <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/go.navc.com\/3AIR3Gx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"s3\">go.navc.com\/3AIR3Gx<\/span><\/a><span class=\"s2\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">The most common positioning for urethral catheterization is in dorsal recumbency, using a V-shaped trough, sandbags, or rolled towels for positioning. Next, the hind limbs should be brought cranially and secured (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 4<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">), which exposes the prepuce and allows for straightening of the urethra during catheterization. After the patient is positioned, shave the perineal region and aseptically scrub the area, including the prepuce. Before the final scrub, gently massage\/roll the prepuce; for a few patients blocked by small mucous plugs, this gentle act combined with the muscle relaxation of sedation may be enough to unblock them.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_128294\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig4.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-128294\" class=\" wp-image-128294\" src=\"https:\/\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig4.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig4.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig4-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-128294\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">FIGURE 4. Preparation of the perineal area.<\/p><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 4: Choose a Catheter<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">The choice of first catheter for unblocking is based on personal preference. The author prefers to attempt initial unblocking with a red rubber catheter. The benefits of exclusively using a red rubber catheter are a less traumatic approach to the urethra, subsequent decreased likelihood of urethral damage, and the ability to leave the catheter in place after unblocking. However, pliability and fenestrations of red rubber catheters can make hydropulsion more difficult. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Some practitioners prefer to use a more rigid catheter for initial unblocking and later replace it with a more pliable catheter to leave indwelling. The benefits of a Mila Tomcat catheter are similar to those of a red rubber catheter, in that it is soft and pliable and can be left in place after unblocking; however, its biggest benefit is that it contains a rigid guide wire and is open-ended (the hole is at the tip of the catheter as opposed to on the sides), thus allowing for easier hydropulsion. The disadvantages of a Mila Tomcat catheter are that it can become dislodged and may be more prone to kinking than a red rubber catheter. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Indwelling longevity can be increased by additional catheter security (e.g., by placing tape around the suture adapter, using an additional finger trap). For very distal blockages, steel olive-tip catheters can be used and are less likely than semirigid catheters to cause a urethral tear. IV catheters (with stylet removed) may also be used; however, IV catheters are very pliable and can be difficult to use. The benefit is that every clinic will have a supply of IV catheters available. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 5: Place the Catheter<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">The difficulty of clearing the urethral obstruction (unblocking) will vary by patient. Some patients may be easily unblocked; others may take several attempts and a combination of techniques. Some practitioners prefer to rely on force and the stiffness of the catheter to unblock the urethra. Doing so is more likely to cause urethral damage and result in a urethral tear but may lessen the time to successful unblocking.<sup>6<\/sup> <\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 6: Use Hydropulsion<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Use of hydropulsion (aggressive lavage of the urethra with sterile water or saline) is an efficient unblocking technique. This method may be slower and require more patience, but ultimately is safer and less traumatic on the urethra. The hydropulsion must be forceful. Gentle hydropulsion will not produce sufficient pressure to dislodge urethral material; thus, use of 12- or 20-mL syringes, as opposed to 3- or 6-mL syringes, is recommended. It is common for so much force to be applied during hydropulsion that connections between the syringe and catheter disconnect. <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Regardless of catheter choice, the technique remains the same. The penis is first extruded by placing a finger and thumb above and below the penis (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 5<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">). The tip of the catheter is lubricated and placed into the tip of the penis, and the prepuce is then pulled caudally (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 6<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">); be sure the catheter does not become dislodged from the urethra. Pulling the prepuce caudally straightens the bend in the urethra immediately proximal to the penis, allowing easier passage of the catheter. After the tip of the catheter is in the penis and is pulled caudally, use hydropulsion while attempting to push the catheter up the urethra. Hold the end of the prepuce snugly to prevent the hydropulsion from escaping backwards. It is helpful to have an assistant perform the hydropulsion while the practitioner holds the prepuce and attempts to pass the catheter. Several attempts may be required before the catheter can be passed. In difficult cases, the sterile lavage solution may be mixed with a small amount of sterile lubricant in an effort to lubricate the urethra. For very difficult cases, attempt this step multiple times. Patience is key; too much force during rigid catheter insertion can lead to urethral trauma.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-image-carousel  su-image-carousel-has-spacing su-image-carousel-crop su-image-carousel-crop-1-1 su-image-carousel-has-lightbox su-image-carousel-has-outline su-image-carousel-adaptive su-image-carousel-slides-style-default su-image-carousel-controls-style-dark su-image-carousel-align-center\" style=\"max-width:70%\" data-flickity-options='{\"groupCells\":true,\"cellSelector\":\".su-image-carousel-item\",\"adaptiveHeight\":false,\"cellAlign\":\"left\",\"prevNextButtons\":true,\"pageDots\":false,\"autoPlay\":5000,\"imagesLoaded\":true,\"contain\":true,\"selectedAttraction\":0.025,\"friction\":0.28}' id=\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig5.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 5. Penis extrusion.\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"1008\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig5.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig5.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig5-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><span>FIGURE 5. Penis extrusion.<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig6.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 6. Pulling the prepuce caudally to straighten the urethra.\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"1008\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig6.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig6.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig6-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><span>FIGURE 6. Pulling the prepuce caudally to straighten the urethra.<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><script id=\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script\">if(window.SUImageCarousel){setTimeout(function() {window.SUImageCarousel.initGallery(document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0\"))}, 0);}var su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script=document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script\");if(su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script){su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script.parentNode.removeChild(su_image_carousel_69e88bd5525b0_script);}<\/script>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Step 7: Secure the Catheter<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">The indwelling catheter can be secured after it has reached just beyond the trigone of the bladder. Termination can be determined via ultrasonography (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 7<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">) and radiography (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 8<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">). Catheter securement and adjustment will vary according to catheter choice. Jorgensen KatKath catheters have a swiveling securement device to help prevent kinking. Mila Tomcat catheters have suturing sheaths. Red rubber catheters can be secured with stay sutures on either side of the prepuce (not on the prepuce) (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 9<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">), and then sutured to Elasticon tape around the catheter. Use of stay sutures enables less painful catheter replacement in the event of catheter slippage because the sutures may remain in place. An additional finger-trap suture may be placed at the caudal end of the tape to prevent slippage. The catheter or urinary collection set can then be secured to the tail with self-adhesive wrap and catheter tape (<\/span><strong><span class=\"s3\">FIGURE 10<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"s2\">). Leave adequate length between the penis and the tail securement to prevent pulling on the penis during the patient\u2019s natural movement.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-image-carousel  su-image-carousel-has-spacing su-image-carousel-crop su-image-carousel-crop-1-1 su-image-carousel-has-lightbox su-image-carousel-has-outline su-image-carousel-adaptive su-image-carousel-slides-style-default su-image-carousel-controls-style-dark su-image-carousel-align-center\" style=\"max-width:70%\" data-flickity-options='{\"groupCells\":true,\"cellSelector\":\".su-image-carousel-item\",\"adaptiveHeight\":false,\"cellAlign\":\"left\",\"prevNextButtons\":true,\"pageDots\":false,\"autoPlay\":5000,\"imagesLoaded\":true,\"contain\":true,\"selectedAttraction\":0.025,\"friction\":0.28}' id=\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig7.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 7. Ultrasonography image showing catheter termination (arrow).\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"862\" height=\"709\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig7.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig7.png 862w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig7-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig7-768x632.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 862px) 100vw, 862px\" \/><span>FIGURE 7. Ultrasonography image showing catheter termination (arrow).<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig8.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 8. Radiograph image showing catheter termination (arrow).\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"864\" height=\"712\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig8.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig8.png 864w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig8-300x247.png 300w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig8-768x633.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 864px) 100vw, 864px\" \/><span>FIGURE 8. Radiograph image showing catheter termination (arrow).<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig9.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 9. Stay suture placement.\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"1008\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig9.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig9.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig9-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><span>FIGURE 9. Stay suture placement.<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><a href=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig10.png\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-caption=\"FIGURE 10. Urinary catheter securement.\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"1008\" src=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig10.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig10.png 720w, https:\/\/navc.sitepreview.app\/todaysveterinarynurse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/Lyons_TVNWinter26_UrinaryObstructon_Fig10-214x300.png 214w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><span>FIGURE 10. Urinary catheter securement.<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><script id=\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script\">if(window.SUImageCarousel){setTimeout(function() {window.SUImageCarousel.initGallery(document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7\"))}, 0);}var su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script=document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script\");if(su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script){su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script.parentNode.removeChild(su_image_carousel_69e88bd552cb7_script);}<\/script>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Complications<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Although uncommon, urethral tears can result from difficult catheterization. Urethral tears cause urine extravasation and urethral strictures and may even prevent urethral catheterization, thereby leading to ongoing obstruction and decreased chances of survival to discharge.<sup>7<\/sup> Factors that contribute to urethral tears are friable tissue, dehydration, and a history of urethral catheterization.<sup>8<\/sup> Urethral tears can be difficult to recognize but are usually noted as an inability to pass a catheter, catheter curling or kinking in the subcutaneous periurethral space, and even intra-abdominal placement of a catheter. If the catheter can be passed but no urine is obtained, concerns should rise for urethral tearing. For very distal tears, surgical intervention via perineal urethrostomy may resolve the complication. For more proximal tears, normograde passage of the urinary catheter may be needed, which is difficult in patients that are still obstructed. Retrograde passage can still be attempted using contrast cystourethrography. After the urinary catheter is in place, it is typically kept indwelling for 1 to 2 weeks to allow the urethra time to heal.<sup>7<\/sup> <\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Alternative Procedure<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">If a catheter cannot be passed, decompressive cystocentesis may be performed to alleviate renal back pressure and ease patient comfort. Decompressive cystocentesis involves emptying the bladder via cystocentesis. Although repeated bladder puncture has been associated with development of hemoabdomen or uroabdomen, single decompressive cystocentesis has not been associated with bladder rupture when followed by urethral catheterization and in-hospital management.<sup>9<\/sup> Decompressive cystocentesis can be performed while planning referral to a specialty hospital, if necessary. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p2\">Summary<\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\">Urethral catheterization of the blocked male cat can be accomplished by a trained veterinary nurse. A trained veterinary nurse should know the techniques used for unblocking and be aware of and able to recognize potential complications.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-box su-box-style-default\" id=\"\" style=\"border-color:#606060;border-radius:3px;\"><div class=\"su-box-title\" style=\"background-color:#939393;color:#FFFFFF;border-top-left-radius:1px;border-top-right-radius:1px\">Into Practice<\/div><div class=\"su-box-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:1px;border-bottom-right-radius:1px\">\n<ul>\n<li>First perform a sacrococcygeal block to aid patient comfort, which allows for use of less sedation and improves muscle relaxation for unblocking.<\/li>\n<li>Use aggressive hydropulsion with sterile water or saline via a 12- or 20-mL syringe.<\/li>\n<li>To minimize urethral trauma, attempt initial unblocking with a soft catheter, such as a red rubber catheter.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Options for urethral catheterization are broad, but supplies for catheterization can normally be found in any veterinary clinic.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":817,"featured_media":128290,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"iawp_total_views":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[816],"tags":[145],"class_list":["post-128288","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-winter-2026","tag-peer-reviewed","column-skills-check","clinical_topics-urology-renal-medicine"],"acf":{"hide_sidebar":false,"hide_sidebar_ad":false,"hide_all_ads":false},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Urethral Catheterization of the Obstructed Male Cat | Today&#039;s Veterinary Nurse<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Urethral catheterization is a 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