Being able to go toilet is fundamental to life. There are a number of reasons why an older cat might not be able to pee or poop. All need treatment but some are more serious than others.

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The reasons why a cat is unable to empty their bladder:

• an obstruction within the bladder which can be the result of inflammation, infection, stones or a tumor
• nerve damage that can result from trauma, injury (such as a "tail pull" event), or cancer
• bladder muscle weakness which can happen if the bladder becomes very full and then is unable to contract even when the original problem is corrected.
• pain (due to arthritis for example) can result in a cat being unable or unwilling to go to the toilet and hold on for extended periods of time. While a cat will eventually urinate, this can result in severe constipation

If your cat is having problems pooping as well then I'd be especially worried about the second group of issues. Either way, I'd recommend that your cat is assessed straight away by your vet as a bladder obstruction is fatal if not cleared, and the other causes will result in pain which needs to be addressed.

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