My cat isn't peeing: when it's an emergency
A male cat that goes into the litter box and can't pee may have a blocked urethra. It's an emergency: don't wait until tomorrow. This guide doesn't replace a vet.
Reviewed by Paola De Valeri, veterinarian, October 17, 2026.
It's an emergency if…
- It goes in and out of the litter box, strains and nothing or only a few drops come out.
- It cries when trying to pee or licks its genitals a lot.
- It vomits, is lethargic or won't eat.
- Its belly is tense and hurts when you touch it.
Without treatment, a cat with a blocked urethra can die within one to three days. Go to the emergency vet even at night.
Why it happens more to males
Male cats have a very narrow urethra that gets blocked by crystals, grit or mucus plugs. Urine builds up, the kidneys stop working and potassium rises in the blood, which affects the heart.
In females a blockage is rare, but they can also get cystitis with pain and blood in the urine.
Other signs of a urinary problem
- Bloody, pink or reddish pee.
- Going to the litter box many times and peeing a little each time.
- Peeing outside the litter box: on the bed, clothes or the sink.
- These signs without a blockage still need a vet visit within one or two days.
How to prevent it
- Help it drink: several bowls, a fountain and some wet food if your vet agrees.
- One clean litter box per cat, plus one extra, in quiet spots.
- Less stress: stable routines, hiding spots and high places.
- Keep a healthy weight and follow your vet's diet if it already had crystals.
Frequently asked questions
- My cat isn't peeing. What do I do?
- If it goes into the litter box and nothing comes out, especially a male, take it to the emergency vet right away. Its urethra may be blocked, and that's fatal without treatment.
- Why is my cat peeing blood?
- It's usually cystitis, crystals or bladder stones, and stress plays a big role. Take it to the vet within one or two days, or right away if it also can't pee.
- Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?
- It may be a painful urinary problem, or something about the litter box it doesn't like: dirt, location or type of litter. First rule out illness with your vet.
Related guides
- My cat won't eat or is vomiting: what to doWhat to do if your cat stops eating or vomits, and why you shouldn't wait.
- Spaying or neutering your dog or cat: age and aftercareAt what age to spay or neuter dogs and cats, and home care after surgery.
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Sources
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