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My cat can't pee and is lethargic. How to find affordable vet care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 lbs

My cat can't pee and has been lethargic for days. I don't have any money. Is there some sort of charity care place I can take him to to get some antibiotics?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2017

This is most definitely an emergency. Cats can pass away very quickly if they are unable to urinate. Please have Kenny seen by a vet right away. Some veterinary hospitals will allow payment plans. You can also apply for CareCredit - a form of medical/veterinary financing accepted by many veterinary hospitals. Some shelters and SPCAs also offer discounted pet care, I'd suggest trying to call around.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Oh dear! I'm afraid that this is a very serious problem. Urinary obstruction is unfortunately relatively common in male cats, since their urethra is extremely narrow where it passes through the penis and can easily become "plugged" with crystals or mucus in the urine. This is a life-threatening emergency, as the bladder can rupture and cause death within hours or days. Kenny needs much more than antibiotics - he needs to be hospitalized for IV fluids and medication to stabilize his condition, and he will also need to have a urinary catheter passed to relieve the obstruction. If costs are a concern, you can do a Google search to see if there is a low-cost SPCA clinic in your area that could help. You can also apply online for Care Credit, which is a payment plan accepted by most vet clinics: www.carecredit.com I would try both of these things right away and get Kenny to a vet as soon as possible. He is very likely to die without immediate care.

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