Symptom: Straining to Urinate - When Should I Contact a Vet?
Straining to urinate means your pet is having difficulty passing urine. Being unable to pass urine is a life-threatening emergency, particularly in male cats, and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Common signs include:
Frequent attempts to urinate
Passing only a few drops of urine, or no urine at all
Straining or squatting for prolonged periods
Blood in the urine
Vocalisation, crying, discomfort or excessive licking around the genital area
Written by Gillian Burkhill, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC
Published June 2025 | Review date June 2028
This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
My pet is struggling to pee - Frequently asked questions
What are the common reasons my pet is struggling to pee?
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – Infection and inflammation can make urination painful and increase the urge to pass urine.
Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs
Urinary Tract Infections in Cats
Bladder Stones in Dogs
'Blocked' Cats
- Bladder stones or crystals – These can irritate the bladder or block the flow of urine.
- Urinary blockage – A complete blockage of the bladder is a life-threatening emergency, particularly in male cats, although it can also occur in dogs.
- Inflammation of the bladder or urinary tract – This may occur with or without infection.
- Other urinary tract diseases – Tumours, neurological disorders and other conditions can also make it difficult to pass urine.
DO’s – What can I do at home if my pet is struggling to pee?
- Check whether your pet is passing any urine, and if so, approximately how much.
- Encourage your pet to drink if they are willing to do so.
- Keep your pet calm and comfortable while arranging a veterinary appointment.
- If your pet is unable to pass urine, contact your vet immediately.
DON'Ts – What I shouldn't do at home if my pet is struggling to pee?
- Don't delay contacting your vet if your pet is passing only a few drops of urine or none at all.
- Don't ignore repeated unsuccessful attempts to urinate, especially in a male cat.
- Don't try home remedies instead of seeking veterinary advice.
- Don't assume your pet is constipated if they are repeatedly straining, as they may actually be trying to pass urine.
When is it an emergency?
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet:
- Is unable to pass urine or is only passing a few drops.
- Is repeatedly straining to urinate, especially if they are producing no urine.
- Has a swollen or painful abdomen.
- Has blood in the urine together with pain, lethargy or vomiting.
A urinary blockage can become life-threatening within hours, particularly in male cats. If you think your pet is unable to pass urine, contact your vet immediately. Animal Trust Pet A&E information.