Expert: Jessica - 11/22/2010

Question
Hi,
I found 2 kittens in the trash a couple of months ago I kept one I am out of work right now. Since Friday evening he is experiencing on his back side spasm when this happens where ever he is he will shoot right for his litter and lay down. I am scared because I can’t help him or don’t know why he is doing this. I can’t afford to take him to a vet right now. He is eating and it seems like he’s going to the bathroom, I have another cat so it’s a little hard to be sure. He isn’t crying but he does want me to hold him more than usually. Do you know what is going on with my cat, BoBo. Please.
Thank you,
Jennifer


Answer
Hi Jennifer,

I can't be sure what's wrong with your kitty.  I'm not sure exactly where the spasms are that you're noticing, but if they're in the genital area, it very likely indicates a urinary tract problem.  This might be a urinary tract infection or urinary tract crystals or stones.  In males, these problems are highly dangerous.  Crystals and stones, or mucus plugs and blood clots caused by infection and inflammation, can block a male's urethra so that he can no longer urinate.  This condition can be deadly in less than 48 hours.

If the spasms seem to be in the anal area, it could indicate he's constipated.  Minor constipation can sometimes be helped by giving the cat a hairball treatment like Laxatone (give double the recommended dose on the first day, then follow instructions).  But if he's severely constipated, he'll need an enema performed by the vet.  Constipation that goes beyond 4 days can also be deadly.

You should separate this kitty from the other one into a room with his own litter box so you can monitor his urinary and fecal output.  If he's not urinating in normal amounts several times a day, and not defecating at least once every two days, he's in trouble.  I would encourage you to talk to a vet about financial assistance or working out a payment program.  In my area, there is a fund set up to help those who are out of work pay for emergency situations like this.

Best of luck!

Jessica