How Long Can A Cat Go Without Using The Bathroom? (Explained)

Did you know cat’s health can be negatively impacted if they do not use the restroom regularly? While a human body can go about 3 days without urinating and up to a week without bowel movements, cats need to relieve themselves at least once a day. If your cat is not using the litter box or going to the bathroom as often as they should, it could be a sign of a health problem. So, how long can a cat go without using the bathroom?

There is no one answer to this question as each cat is different. Some cats may be able to hold it for a day or two without any issues, while others may need to go more frequently. The key is to pay attention to your cat’s behavior and look for any changes that may indicate they are not feeling well. If you are concerned about your cat’s bathroom habits, or if they have suddenly stopped using the litter box altogether, it is best to consult with your veterinarian.

In this article I’ll go over and examine the medical reasons that could cause a change in your cat’s bathroom habits. I’ll also give you some tips on how to keep an eye on your cat’s bathroom behavior and what to do if you notice any changes.

What is Considered Normal Cat Bathroom Behavior?

A healthy cat will typically use the restroom between one and five times per day. If your cat is urinating more frequently, it could be a sign of a health problem such as kidney disease or diabetes. On the other hand, if your cat is urinating less often, it could be a sign of dehydration.

Your cat’s stool should be soft and easy to pass. If your cat is having difficulty defecating, it could be a sign of constipation. Hard, dry stool may also be a sign of dehydration.

If you notice any changes in your cat’s bathroom habits, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to determine if there is a medical reason for the change and provide you with guidance on how to best care for your cat.

How Long Can A Cat Go Without Peeing Or Pooping?

Cats can hold their urine for a long time, but not as long as they can hold their bowel movements. A cat’s bladder is much smaller than a human’s, so it doesn’t take as much for them to feel the need to go. Most cats will urinate at least once a day, although some may go a few times per day or even every few hours.

If I say precisely most cats can hold 24-48 hours without peeing. On average, cats defecate around 12-36 hours after eating. For example, if a cat eats at 8 PM on Tuesday night, they may not defecate again until sometime Thursday morning. However, some cats may defecate more frequently, while others may go less often.

Certain medical conditions can cause a cat to urinate or defecate more frequently. If your cat is going to the bathroom more often than usual, or if they are having accidents outside of the litter box, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. Excessive urination or defecation can also be a sign of dehydration, so make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times.

Why Can’t My Cat Pee or Poop?

Now that I’ve gone over how often cats typically urinate and defecate, let’s talk about what could cause a change in bathroom habits. If your cat is having trouble peeing or pooping, it could be due to a number of medical reasons. Here I’ll discuss some of the most common causes of urinary and bowel problems in cats.

1. Dehydration (Lack Of Water)

One of the most common causes of a cat not being able to pee or poop is dehydration. When a cat is dehydrated, their body does not have enough moisture to produce urine. Dehydration can be caused by many things, including heat exposure, diarrhea, and vomiting.

If you think your cat may be dehydrated, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation. The veterinarian will be able to determine the cause of the dehydration and will recommend the best course of treatment.

2. Stress (Emotional)

Another common reason why a cat may not be able to pee or poop is stress. When a cat is stressed, their body produces a hormone called cortisol. This hormone can make it difficult for the cat to urinate.

Many factors can cause stress, including a change in the environment, the addition of a new pet, or a relocation to a new home with unfamiliar people. According to the ASPCA, “Cats are very sensitive to changes in their environment and need time to adjust to new surroundings.” If you think your cat is stressed, straightforward way to help is to try and provide them with a quiet, safe place to hide.

3. Constipation (Bowel obstruction)

Constipation is another common reason why a cat may not be able to pee or poop. When a cat is constipated, their stool becomes hard and dry. This can make it difficult for the cat to pass stool. Constipation can be caused by many things, including a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, and stress.

From my experience, the best way to help a cat with constipation is to give them a high-fiber diet. This can be done by adding canned pumpkin or bran cereal to their food.

Symptoms and Causes of Certain Medical Conditions

Here I’ll explain some of the symptoms and causes of the most common medical conditions that can cause a change in bathroom habits.

1. FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease)

FLUTD is a common health problem in cats that can cause a change in bathroom habits. Signs of FLUTD include increased urination, straining to urinate, bloody urine, and lethargy. FLUTD is often caused by stress or a diet high in ash. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of FLUTD

• Increased urination
• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urine
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Vomiting

How to Prevent FLUTD

1. Always provide your cat with a clean litter box.
2. Do not change your cat’s litter type abruptly.
3. Do not change your cat’s diet abruptly.
4. Feed your cat a balanced diet.
5. Provide your cat with plenty of fresh water.
6. Give your cat plenty of attention and affection.

2. Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra caused by trauma, infection, or irritation. The urethra swells and therefore narrows, making it difficult or impossible for urine to pass through. Cats with urethritis may have difficulty urinating, bloody urine, and increased frequency of urination. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Urethritis

• Difficulty urinating
• Bloody urine
• Increased frequency of urination
• Straining to urinate
• Blood in the urine
• Pain in the lower abdominal area
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite

How to Prevent Urethritis

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the urethritis. If the urethritis is caused by a bacterial infection, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics. If the urethritis is caused by an irritant, the veterinarian will recommend removing the irritant from the environment. If the urethritis is caused by trauma, the veterinarian will treat the underlying injury.

3. Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder that can be caused by infection, irritation, or trauma. The bladder swells and fills with pus, making it difficult or impossible for urine to pass through. Cats with cystitis may have difficulty urinating, bloody urine, and increased frequency of urination. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Cystitis

As same with FLUTD & Urethra, the veterinarian will treat the underlying cause of the cystitis.

4. Urinary Stones

Urinary stones are hardened deposits of minerals that form in the urinary tract. They can be small or large, and can block the urethra or cause irritation as they pass through the urinary tract. Cats with urinary stones may have difficulty urinating, bloody urine, and increased frequency of urination. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Urinary Stones

• Decreased urine output
• Straining to urinate
• Bloody urine
• Increased frequency of urination
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

How to Prevent Urinary Stones

The care and treatment given will depend on the type of urinary stone present. If the stones are small, they may be able to pass through the urinary tract without treatment. If the stones are large, they may need to be surgically removed. In some cases, the stones can be dissolved with a special diet or medication.

5. Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a condition that affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood. Cats with kidney disease may have decreased appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, increased urination, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Bad breath and/or mouth ulcers

How to Prevent Kidney Disease

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the kidney disease. If the kidney disease is caused by a bacterial infection, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics. If the kidney disease is caused by a genetic disorder, there is no cure but the symptoms can be managed with medication. If the kidney disease is caused by renal failure, the veterinarian will recommend a special diet and medication to help support the kidneys.

6. Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin. Cats with diabetes may have increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Diabetes

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How to Prevent Diabetes

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the diabetes. If the diabetes is caused by a pancreas disorder, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease. If the diabetes is caused by a genetic disorder, there is no cure but the symptoms can be managed with medication. If the diabetes is caused by an injury or infection, the veterinarian will treat the underlying condition.

7. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Cats with hyperthyroidism may have increased appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, increased urination, and hyper activity. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

• Increased appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Hyperactivity
• Restlessness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

How to Prevent Hyperthyroidism

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the hyperthyroidism. If the hyperthyroidism is caused by a benign tumor of the thyroid gland, the tumor can be surgically removed. If the hyperthyroidism is caused by cancer of the thyroid gland, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended. If the hyperthyroidism is caused by an overactive thyroid gland, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease.

8. Liver Disease

Liver disease is a condition that affects the liver’s ability to function properly. Cats with liver disease may have decreased appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Liver Disease

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

How to Prevent Liver Disease

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the liver disease. If the liver disease is caused by a viral infection, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics. If the liver disease is caused by a toxin, the veterinarian will recommend decontamination and supportive care. If the liver disease is caused by cancer, the veterinarian will recommend surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

9. Cancer

Cancer is a condition that occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control. Cats with cancer may have a mass or lump that can be felt, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Cancer

• Mass or lump that can be felt
• Weight loss
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy

How to Prevent Cancer

The care and treatment given will depend on the type of cancer diagnosed. If the cancer is caught early and is localized (has not spread), surgery may be an option. If the cancer has spread, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended.

10. Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints and causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Cats with arthritis may have decreased appetite, weight loss, decreased activity level, and lameness. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Arthritis

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Decreased activity level
• Lameness
• Joint swelling
• Joint pain
• Stiffness

How to Prevent Arthritis

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the arthritis. If the arthritis is caused by an injury, the veterinarian will recommend rest and physical therapy. If the arthritis is caused by a disease, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease.

11. Megacolon

Megacolon is a condition that affects the large intestine and causes it to become dilated and sluggish. Cats with megacolon may have decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Megacolon

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

How to Prevent Megacolon

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the megacolon. If the megacolon is caused by a blockage, the veterinarian will recommend surgery to remove the blockage. If the megacolon is caused by a disease, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease.

12. Blood Clots

Blood clots are a condition that occurs when abnormal cells grow in the blood vessels. Cats with blood clots may have decreased appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and pale gums. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Blood Clots

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Pale gums
• Weakness
• Collapse

How to Prevent Blood Clots

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the blood clots. If the blood clots are caused by a disease, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease. If the blood clots are caused by an injury, the veterinarian will recommend surgery to remove the clot.

13. Gastrointestinal Disease

Gastrointestinal diseases are conditions that affect the stomach and intestines. Cats with gastrointestinal disease may have decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disease

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy

How to Prevent Gastrointestinal Disease

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the gastrointestinal disease. If the disease is caused by a virus, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the virus. If the disease is caused by bacteria, the veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics. If the disease is caused by a parasites, the veterinarian will recommend treatment to remove the parasites.

14. Renal Disease

Renal disease is a condition that affects the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure. Cats with renal disease may have decreased appetite, weight loss, increased thirst, increased urination, and vomiting. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Renal Disease

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy

How to Prevent Renal Disease

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the renal disease. If the renal disease is caused by a blockage, the veterinarian will recommend surgery to remove the blockage. If the renal disease is caused by a disease, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease.

15. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a condition that affects the pancreas and can lead to inflammation of the organ. Cats with pancreatitis may have decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy

How to Prevent Pancreatitis

The care and treatment given will depend on the underlying cause of the pancreatitis. If the pancreatitis is caused by a disease, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to help control the disease. If the pancreatitis is caused by an injury, the veterinarian will recommend surgery to remove the clot.

How to Monitor Your Cat’s Bathroom Habits?

The best way to monitor your cat’s bathroom habits is to keep a daily log. Simply write down how many times your cat uses the litter box each day and whether they are urinating or defecating. It is also important to note any changes in the color or consistency of your cat’s stool.

A decrease in the number of trips to the litter box could signal dehydration, while an increase could mean that your cat is dealing with a health issue that is making them urinate more frequently (e.g., diabetes, feline lower urinary tract disease).

Blood in the urine warrants an immediate trip to the veterinarian, as does straining to urinate or going outside of the litter box (this could be a sign of a blockage). Stool that is black, bloody, or excessively soft are also cause for concern and warrant a veterinary visit.

If you notice any changes in your cat’s bathroom habits, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. They will be able to help you determine if the changes are normal or if they warrant further investigation.

The Summary

Cats can go without using the bathroom for a variety of reasons. If your cat is not urinating or defecating regularly, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation. Dehydration, gastrointestinal disease, renal disease, and pancreatitis are all potential causes of a decrease in bathroom trips.

By monitoring your cat’s bathroom habits and keeping a log of their trips to the litter box, you will be able to identify any changes that may warrant further investigation. If you have any concerns about your cat’s health, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.