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Urethral obstruction is a relatively common presentation in dogs and cats. The relatively long and narrow urethra of the male results in the presentation being more common in this sex, although cases also occur in bitches and queens. Obstruction by uroliths (including sludge and mucus plugs) is the most frequent cause, but even these common cases can be frustrating to diagnose and manage. Radiography is often key to decision making and both plain and contrast studies should be taken. The technique of retrograde hydropropulsion is extremely useful for managing urethral obstruction by uroliths and should be familiar to practitioners. Other common causes of urethral obstruction include trauma, neoplasia and dys-synergia. In a few cases, definitive surgery of these is possible, but in others salvage surgery (e.g. urethrostomy) or tube cystotomy may be the sensible alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]