Friends,
If anyone has a helpful suggestion, I would appreciate it!

Long story short: I have a 2 1/2 yr old cat w/UTI. Found this out after he quit using the litter box and I took him to the vet after July 4th week-end (just to let you know how long this has been going on).

In the meantime, he's now on his second round of antibiotics since he could still see evidence of infection. Also saw crystals in his urine on second blood test, He's talking about possibly surgery. Well, we'll see about that!

Well, while we're treating for the UTI, now he's still urinating everywhere - and I mean EVERYWHERE - except the litter box! So in self-defense, I put him in a dog crate - with a litter box when he wakes for about an hour so he HAS to use the litter box (and not my furniture/clothes/anywhere else he deems convenient).

So, my kitty friends, here's where I need your help:
Since putting him in the crate, I'm watching him trying, trying to urinate. He seems NOT able to "go" much now, and is meowing, as if in pain. I think he's trying to pass those pesky "crystals/stones!" All that's passing is a few drops at a time.

I'm wondering if it's necessary to take him back to the vet before his regular scheduled appointment (next week), or if anyone has a suggestion of something I can give him that will help him pass the crystals?

Thanks to those who will write to help. And to those who can't resist the urge to suggest I just make some "cat soup," save your strength.