Hi Mindy,
It sounds like your kitty is suffering from a chronic form of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or FLUTD. This syndrome can definitely be exacerbated during times of stress where your pet may not stay as hydrated due to decreased water intake, holding his urine too long due to a new box location, or from increased hiding behaviors that keep him from coming out to drink!!
IF he is not yowling and uncomfortable and is not depressed or vomiting, than he can likely wait until FIRST thing in the morning, but he DOES need to see a vet tomorrow!!
If he cries or flinches when you press on his lower belly and you can feel a big, hard ball inside, that is a big sign that you should seek veterinary care tonite!! Also, if he is vomiting, hiding, and constantly licking his genitals that is a sign of pain & distress also, so you should not wait!
Male cats can easily form urinary obstructions of their urethra which allows for urine to back up into the bladder and kidneys. Not only do toxins build up in your pets bloodstream, but risk of bladder rupture is high if left untreated!!
I would not worry about a 35 minute drive stressing him out. Being sick and having a severe urinary tract infection or blockage is much worse than a car ride!!
No matter which time you take him, please expect your vet to do the following things for your pet!
* CBC/Chemistry to assess for inflammation, infection, and assess kidney health
* Urinalysis to evaluate degree of inflammation, infection, and identify any crystals formed
* Abdominal radiographs to assess kidneys, bladder, and screen for radioopaque stones that may be present.
* Fluid Therapy to correct hydration and flush the system of toxins.
* Antibiotics to treat underlying infection .
* Antiinflammatories to help reduce bladder wall inflammation.
* Pain medications.
* Urinary catheter~ sometimes needed if an obstruction is present!!
* Prescription strength veterinary diets like Hills S/D, or Eukanuba pH-S or Royal Canine SO to help dissolve and prevent formation of struvite crystals in the urine
I wish your kitty a speedy recovery! Let me know what happens!!
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Best wishes to your and your pet, Dr. Smith
Edited by jodilynnsaleo on October 17 2006 at 4:06 PM
Dr. Jodi L. Smith, over 14 years of clinical and surgical expertise in all species, with special emphasis on exotics, pediatrics, dermatology, cardiology, and geriatric medicine. Your pet's health and well being are my first concern.