Palpating the feline abdomen to ascertain bladder fullness involves gentle, skilled touch. The bladder, when moderately full, feels like a soft, round, somewhat firm balloon located in the caudal abdomen. An empty bladder is generally impalpable, while an excessively distended bladder feels tense and may be painful to the animal.
Determining the state of bladder distension is vital for assessing a cat’s urinary health. A full bladder in a cat that is not urinating appropriately can indicate a blockage or other urinary issue requiring immediate veterinary attention. Regularly monitoring bladder size (especially in cats with pre-existing urinary conditions) provides valuable information for preventative care and early detection of potential problems, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
