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Why is my male cat dribbling pee and going to the litter box a lot?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 years old | 8 lbs

Ziggy has been dribbling pee and in the litter box. He is 5 years old and neutered. He has never done this before and is only inside

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 5th, 2018

Usually in a male cat dribbling urine or using the litter box more frequently can be a sign of a concerning issue like urinary bladder obstruction. Urinary obstruction is a very dangerous and serious concern so Ziggy should be examined by a veterinarian right away.

These signs could also be a result of Feline lower urinary tract disease which also requires emergency medical attention as it can result in a urinary blockage.

After Ziggy is examined he may need supportive care like IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain medications. If he does have a urinary obstruction he will need a urinary catheter placed to remove the obstruction.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I hope Ziggy is feeling better soon!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on July 13th, 2018
Poor Bowie! It sounds like he may have a urinary problem such as FIC (feline idiopathic cystitis), bladder stones, or a urinary tract infection. These problems are particularly concerning in male cats, because they can easily become "blocked" and unable to urinate at all, which is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Because of this, I would strongly recommend taking Bowie to the vet today for an exam. He/she can do a urinalysis or other testing if needed to help determine what is causing his symptoms, and get him started on appropriate treatment right away to help avoid more serious problem.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 23rd, 2019
Hello, sorry to hear about Snow. This sign is concerning in male cats as they can become obstructed in their lower urethra making them unable to urinate at all. If this does occur then it is a medical emergency that should not wait until Monday. If Snow is still able to urinate then you can continue to monitor him and have him evaluated immediately on Monday, but is he is not able to produce any urine, is vocalizing while urinating, is going into the litter tray every 3-5 minutes, then he should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

You may find evidence of him being able to urinate via urine in the litter itself. If you do not see any urine on the litter, then have him evaluated by a veterinarian today.

Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 30th, 2017
Oh no. I would highly recommend taking Ziggy in to your local vet right away. He could either have a severe urinary tract infection or he could be blocked (unable to urinate). He needs treatment quickly for either of these conditions before he gets any sicker. A painful kitty is usually a really sick kitty and should be treated right away. I hope that your pet Ziggy is able to make a full and speedy recovery. Best wishes and take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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