What this means
Not being able to control means the cat cannot hold back urine or stool: it may leave some where it rests, its fur sometimes smells of urine, and the hindquarters are soiled. This differs from a cat that chooses another spot on purpose: here it simply does not know or cannot manage.
Urinating and passing stools are controlled by nerves that run from the spinal cord, so a problem with the nerves or the spine can cause it. In some cases it is inherited or formed during development, and it is already visible in kittens, together with weak back legs or a strange, hopping walk. This is more often so in cats born without a tail or with a very short one, but only a vet can assess what is going on.
Sudden loss of control in an adult cat, or weakness of the back legs that comes with it, is quite a different matter and can be an emergency. Note since when it has been happening, whether the walk has changed, and whether the cat can empty itself. Do not punish or call it disobedience: the cat is not at fault.
Possible causes
These are things that can cause this sign. It is not a diagnosis, and they are not equally likely for your cat.
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An inherited spine and nerve development problem
A fault in how the lower spinal cord and nerves formed can affect the bladder and bowel. Signs show from birth or in the first months, and a vet should assess it.
About the condition: Manx syndrome -
Damage to the spinal cord or nerves
An injury or illness that has damaged the spinal cord or nerves can take control away. The back legs often weaken at the same time.
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Urinary tract disease or inflammation
Urinary tract problems sometimes cause leaking or an urge that cannot be held. A vet finds the exact cause.
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Bowel or rectal disease
Damage or inflammation of the bowel or rectum can disturb holding back stools.
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An overfull bladder that leaks
When urine cannot leave fully, the bladder overfills and urine starts to leak by itself. This can be an emergency, so a vet must be contacted.
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Old age or other changes in health
With age or other illness, control can weaken. This too has to be assessed by a vet and not put down to natural ageing.
What else to watch for
These observations help your vet build the picture faster. Note down what you saw and when.
- Since when it has been happening, and whether it began suddenly or gradually
- Whether the back legs are weak or the walk is strange and hopping
- Whether the cat can empty itself, and how much urine comes
- Whether the hindquarters and fur are often damp or soiled
- Whether the cat was born without a tail or with a very short one
- Whether appetite, thirst or energy are changing
When to book a routine visit
Book a visit if your cat or kitten cannot control its urine or stool, even if it otherwise seems well. If it began suddenly or the legs are weakening too, go straight away.
Related conditions
Conditions whose entries mention this sign. The list is somewhere to read on, not a way to reach a diagnosis.
Body systems: Nerves and muscles