Can a cat pass urinary stones on their own?

Small, non-obstructing stones or crystals may sometimes be passed with dietary management and veterinary guidance; however, if obstruction or pain is present, professional treatment is needed — please consult your vet.

What tests are needed for urinary stones?

Common tests include a blood biochemistry panel, urinalysis and bacterial culture, plus X-ray or ultrasound to confirm the location and size of the stones.

How can I collect a urine sample from my cat at home?

Use a clean, shallow container or a dedicated urine-collection litter to catch a fresh sample; avoid contamination, refrigerate it promptly, and bring it to the clinic — ask your vet for collection tips if needed.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my cat from forming stones again?

Common strategies include increasing water intake, following a vet-recommended prescription diet, and scheduling regular urine check-ups; your vet will advise on the best approach based on the underlying cause.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Cat Urinary Stones (Struvite): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Guide [2025]

Struvite stones are common in cats and are often infection-related; prescription diets may dissolve them, and antibiotics are needed when infection is present.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ISFM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Continuous straining but no urine is passed at all
•Large amounts of bright red blood in the urine or persistent bleeding
•Lethargy accompanied by vomiting or a marked drop in appetite

Arrange a clinic visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Frequent trips to the litter box but only small amounts of urine each time
•Crying out or obvious discomfort while urinating
•Occasional streaks of blood or persistently cloudy urine

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Urinary stones often cause changes in urination habits and behavior, including frequency, volume, and signs of pain.

Frequent trips to the litter box with only small amounts of urine passed
Changes in water intake (often increased)
Signs of pain or vocalizing while urinating
Blood visible in the urine or blood-tinged urine
Straining to urinate with little or no output
Schedule a vet appointment for evaluation as soon as possible

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Completely unable to urinate or persistent straining with no urine output
⚠️ Large amounts of bright red blood in the urine or continuous bleeding
⚠️ Lethargy accompanied by vomiting or a significant drop in appetite

02How can I assess the situation at home? Key observations and when to seek emergency care

Recording key information at home before your vet visit helps the veterinarian assess the situation and arrange appropriate tests more quickly.

Note the time and approximate volume of each urination attempt
Estimate total daily water intake and drinking frequency
Film the urination process or any abnormal behavior
Observe and record any changes in appetite, vomiting, and activity level
If you can collect a urine sample, refrigerate it and bring it to the clinic
Bring your observations and videos along to the specialist hospital

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common diagnostic tests

The veterinarian will use physical examination along with imaging and laboratory tests to confirm the location of the stones and whether infection or obstruction is present.

Physical examination

abdominal, perineal, and bladder palpation

Blood and biochemistry panel

assess kidney function and overall condition

Urinalysis and bacterial culture

identify infection or crystal composition

X-ray

detect radiopaque stones or calcification

Ultrasound or CT

assess stone size, location, and degree of obstruction

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary changes, and home care

Treatment depends on stone composition and whether obstruction is present; options may include medication, prescription diet, or surgical removal, with ongoing monitoring.

Antibiotics may be required if concurrent infection is confirmed (based on culture results)
Switch to a prescription diet as directed by your vet to modify the urinary environment
Endoscopy or surgery can remove larger or obstructing stones
Attend follow-up appointments for imaging or urine re-checks as scheduled
Limit activity at home and encourage increased water consumption
If symptoms worsen, arrange a specialist visit as soon as possible

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet identify the cause quickly

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have progressed

Write down recent diet, treats, and drinking habits

List all current medications and supplements

Bring any previous X-ray or ultrasound reports if available

Collect and properly store a urine sample if possible

Use a secure carrier and book a specialist appointment in advance

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.