Ureteral Obstruction in Dogs and Cats

 Ureteral obstruction means the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder (the ureter) becomes blocked.

This causes urine to back up into the kidney, leading to:

• Hydronephrosis (kidney swelling)

• Kidney damage

• Pain and vomiting

• Life-threatening electrolyte changes

Cats are especially prone to ureteral obstruction due to tiny ureters (1 mm or less) that easily block.

The most common cause in cats = ureteroliths (stones).

In dogs: stones, scar tissue, tumours, or trauma may be responsible.

SUB placement is now considered the gold-standard treatment, especially in cats, replacing risky traditional surgeries.