If you use an indwelling (Foley), intermittent, or suprapubic catheter, you know how essential proper catheter care is to your daily comfort, urinary health, and infection prevention.

But how can you tell when it’s time to replace your catheter, or when something might be wrong?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common signs that your catheter needs attention, what to try before calling a healthcare provider, and when it’s time to seek medical support.

Red Flags That Your Catheter May Need to Be Replaced

Knowing the warning signs early can help you prevent serious complications. Here are the top indicators:

1. No Urine Flow

If your drainage bag is empty for several hours despite normal fluid intake, your catheter may have:

  • A blockage
  • A kinked or bent tube
  • Shifted or become dislodged

2. Leakage Around the Insertion Site

Urine leaking around the catheter rather than through the tubing could be a sign of:

  • A blocked catheter
  • Improper placement
  • Bladder spasms pushing urine around the tube

3. Cloudy, Smelly, or Bloody Urine

This may signal a urinary tract infection (UTI) or trauma to the urinary tract. Also look for:

  • Sediment or visible debris
  • Strong odor
  • Fever or chills

These are all signs it’s time to contact a healthcare provider.

4. Pain or Discomfort

Pain in the lower abdomen, urethra, or bladder area can result from:

  • Improper positioning
  • Irritation or infection
  • Catheter tension or movement

5. Debris or Blood Clots in Tubing or Bag

If you notice sediment, mucus, or clots, this may indicate:

  • Infection
  • Bladder stones
  • Internal bleeding

These obstructions can also block urine flow, increasing the risk of kidney complications.

Troubleshooting Tips Before You Call a Specialist

If you notice a problem, try the following steps first — unless it’s an emergency:

  • Check for kinks or twists in the tubing
  • Make sure your collection bag is below bladder level
  • If trained, flush with sterile saline
  • Gently reposition the tubing to reduce tension
  • Drink extra water, which may help clear minor blockages

Important: NEVER force anything into your catheter or try to remove it yourself unless a medical professional has specifically trained you to do so.

When to Call a Healthcare Provider

Contact your doctor or urology nurse if you experience:

  • No urine output for 4–6 hours, even after troubleshooting
  • Fever, chills, burning, or strong-smelling urine
  • Persistent leakage or discomfort
  • Recurring blood or blockages
  • Catheter falls out (especially for suprapubic users — prompt reinsertion is critical)

Stay Ahead of Issues with Routine Catheter Care

Taking a little time now can help you avoid major complications down the road. Make sure you’re performing routine maintenance and adhering to a regular replacement schedule to avoid complications. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when it comes to catheter hygiene, bag emptying and cleaning, and scheduling catheter changes – typically every 4-12 weeks.

The team at Piedmont Medical Solutions is dedicated to helping our clients live comfortably and confidently with their catheter. Our team provides high-quality catheter supplies, educational resources, and an experienced support team to help you choose the right catheter or manage your current catheter. Call our team today to get the personalized care you deserve.

Contact Piedmont Medical Solutions