Lovable Mittens’ Struggle: Handling Feline Urethral Obstruction

Introducing Mittens, a lovable kitty with a penchant for belly rubs. Find out how this adorable young cat overcame a serious medical obstacle with the help of pet insurance. You’ll be surprised how quickly a gentle, happy cat’s journey took an unexpected turn when he developed a feline urethral obstruction requiring a high-risk perineal urethrostomy.

Jade, Mittens’ devoted pet parent, graciously shared his tale with us. This account sheds light on the hurdles he encountered and the remarkable resilience he demonstrated throughout his recovery.

Moreover, it serves as a valuable guide for cat parents, sharing insights into recognising and addressing urethral blockages in kittens and cats.

Mittens arrives as a family gift

Mittens became a cherished member of the family during the Christmas of 2020. Jade excitedly presented him as a gift to her two children and Mittens’ affectionate nature captured their affections from the start. His penchant for exploring the neighbourhood and luxuriating on sun-soaked concrete quickly became endearing traits.

Describing him, Jade affectionately notes, “He’s a gentle giant that purrs up a storm and loves sleeping with his human sibling.”

In the household, Mittens coexists with Miley, another playful feline. He originally had two cat sisters but tragedy struck in June 2022 when the other met her fate in a car accident. In the aftermath, Mittens and Miley formed an unbreakable bond, evolving into the best of friends.

Miley’s playful energy and exuberant dashes around the house serve as a constant source of activity for Mittens, ensuring he remains lively and alert.

The unforeseen health twist

One day, Mittens deviated from his usual behaviour and began to spray around the house. This raised concerns for Jade, who suspected a urinary infection. She promptly took Mittens to the vet, who prescribed antibiotics and sent him home.

Afterwards, Mittens’ nestled on the couch, his favourite spot, for the night. However, his condition deteriorated overnight. The next morning, Jade discovered him in the same spot but now appearing lifeless and unresponsive. It was time to act immediately.

With remarkable courage, Vinnie, her 8-year-old son, bundled Mittens in a towel and held him while James, Jade’s husband, raced them to the nearest 24-hour veterinary facility. During Mittens’ vet visit, the vet diagnosed his bladder as severely distended and leaking internally, like he was passing urine through a razor blade.

Jade recounts, “We were willing to do anything for Mittens. Having already experienced the loss of his sister and our older dogs, we were determined to fight for Mittens. He was our beloved fur baby.”

Round 1: Initial battle against feline urethral obstruction

Swift intervention by the vets averted Mittens’ immediate peril. They sedated Mittens and drained his bladder to prevent sepsis. Despite this critical rescue, Mittens’ situation remained grave, necessitating transfer to another hospital for further monitoring and treatment.

“We were told the next 12 hours would be critical for Mittens. He needed a catheter and plenty of medication,” Jade explains.

On a Saturday afternoon, the family received news that they could visit Mittens, a sign of improvement though not complete recovery. The vets affirmed Mittens’ friendliness despite the ordeal and his fondness for belly rubs. His diagnosis indicated a urethral obstruction, raising concerns of cardiac arrest.

Round 2: The call for perineal urethrostomy surgery

Mittens’ condition stabilised the following day, allowing his return home from the vet. Yet, it was evident he continued to struggle with urination, managing only a feeble stream.

Without hesitation, Jade brought Mittens to a veterinarian clinic for further assessment. The verdict was in—this sweet cat was in serious trouble and needed a perineal urethrostomy surgery to survive.

Coincidentally, a cancellation led to an available slot for their cat to undergo the perineal urethrostomy surgery on the following day. The family viewed this as a fortuitous sign. The surgery was to be carried out by a qualified and experienced vet, instilling confidence in the decision to get it done ASAP.

Mittens’ incredible triumph

Perineal urethrostomy surgery, while fraught with risk, was met with Mittens’ resilience. He stayed at the vet’s until he resumed normal eating and toileting habits. Jade recollects, “Again, the vets commented that he’s the friendliest cat they had met. He wasn’t aggressive in any way and continued to love his belly rubs.”

Eventually, Mittens returned home. Despite experiencing a period of melancholy and a dislike for the cone he had to wear, he’d emerged victorious from feline urethral obstruction.

Jade fondly shares, “Today Mittens is more of an indoors cat than outdoors, but we just think he’s waiting for his fur to grow back. He still enjoys sleeping with Vinnie and loves when someone rubs his belly. Through this whole time, Mittens has not shown one sign of aggression; he is still our gentle giant”.

The safety net of pet insurance

During Mittens’ critical moments, Jade’s primary concern was his survival. The extent of their insurance coverage was far from their thoughts. However, their decision to insure Mittens upon his arrival in 2020 proved to be hugely valuable.

“We chose PD Insurance because the coverage to cost benefit ticked all the boxes for us. We also had two older doggies at the time who had benefited from insurance in the past, so we thought we’d best protect our precious kitties,” Jade shares.

Jade further explains that PD approved their insurance claim quickly, despite it encompassing various veterinary treatments and the crucial perineal urethrostomy surgery for feline urethral obstruction. Within 24 hours, they received notification of approval without the need for additional inquiries or examinations. The reimbursement was promptly processed.

“To know that PD was so prompt and caring made this whole experience just that little bit easier. I felt stress free knowing Mittens was covered.” Jade adds.

Decoding feline urethral obstruction

Curious about Mittens’ condition? Feline urethral obstruction is a condition predominantly affecting male cats due to their narrower urethras. This condition arises when there is an obstruction or constriction in the urinary passage, impeding normal urination. The consequences are severe, potentially endangering the cat’s life if left untreated.

It can happen at any time in a cat’s life though usually when they’re younger.

The condition induces discomfort, pain, and the accumulation of toxins in the body. Urgent veterinary intervention is imperative to eliminate the blockage and restore proper urination. Jade underscores that feline urethral obstruction, especially among larger male cats, is more common than anticipated.

“Even if you notice the slightest change with your cat, please be aware and take them to the vet for a check-up,” says Jade. “Luckily we noticed Mittens’ condition quickly because of him spraying, though he could have been unwell for some time but not shown any signs until closer to the day of his admission.”

Recognising symptoms of feline urethral obstruction

Keep an eye on kittens and cats for the following signs indicative of feline urethral obstruction:

1. Frequent, unproductive attempts to urinate.
2. Straining during urination, often accompanied by visible discomfort.
3. Painful urination, manifesting in cries or signs of distress.
4. Excessive grooming of the genital area. When touching the genital area, cats may experience increased sensitivity or discomfort.
5. Presence of blood in the urine, appearing pink, red, or rusty. Restlessness, unease, or agitation in the cat’s behaviour.
6. Loss of appetite, reduced activity, weakness, or fatigue.

Other health issues to learn about

Want to know more about health conditions in cats? Here are some articles to boost your knowledge:

• Diabetes In Dogs And Cats – What You Need To Know
• Cat Saves Cat: All About Cat Blood Donation
• Average Cat Weight: Is Yours Under, Over or Just Right?
• Why Do Cats Eat Grass?
• How Long Do Cats Live?
• So… Should You Desex Your Cat?
• A Guide to Tick Paralysis in Dogs and Cats
• Top Tips for Eye Infections in Dogs and Cats

Like Mittens, get pet insurance for your cat

Inspired by Mittens’ story overcoming feline urethral obstruction? PD Insurance provides pocket-friendly, award-winning pet insurance to ensure your kitten or cat can receive top-tier veterinary care without undue financial strain.

When you sign up for cat insurance or kitten insurance online, you stand to receive one or more months of coverage for your pet absolutely free. Yes, that’s right—our fur babies deserve some freebies too.

Join the PDPet community today and let’s stride toward a world where joyous pets and worry-free pet parents walk paw in paw! 🐾🌟