Expert: Jessica - 1/8/2012

Question
My 9 year old cat went into the after hours urgent care today and had a catheterization for a urinary blockage.  They said that normally they would keep him overnight but since it was a weekend, they didn't have overnight hours.  Therefore, they discharged him to me after about 2 hours, gave me antibiotics for a UTI and told me to make sure he urinated by noon tomorrow. If not, I am to take him to the emergency vet.  
I brought him home and almost 8 hours later, he is still very lethargic.  He is also leeking a fair amount of pink urine.  About 2 hours ago, he drank a lot of water and then threw it all up.  He has gone to the litter box 2 times but "missed".  There was a good amount of pink urine directly outside the box.  I'm concerned about the bloody "leaking" and the lethargy.  When do I worry?  How do I know he isn't reblocked?   I read that one of the reasons they are kept overnight is to monitor how much they urinate and also to give them IV fluids. If he isn't getting fluids via IV and he is throwing up the water he is drinking at home, should I worry?
thanks!

Answer
Hi Kelley,

He probably received plenty of fluids prior to leaving the vet's office to keep him hydrated for a couple days despite vomiting. However, the vomiting itself may be a concern if it continues. If he's on antibiotics, this could be the cause and you might want to talk your vet about switching. After a few days, vomiting will lead to dehydration, even after having the IV fluids.

As far as reblockage, as long as he is passing urine without straining, it should be okay. Some dribbling and missing the litter box is expected for up to a couple of weeks, as inflammation can leave them unable to discern when they need to use the litter box. If you notice he's straining to urinate or incontinence and inflammation continue longer than a couple weeks, talk to your vet. His blockage may have been caused by an inflammatory condition. Mucus forms in response to inflammation and can block the urethra. If he starts straining to urinate, get him to the vet immediately.

Best of luck!
Jessica