Iatrogenic bladder perforation from urethral catheterisation is uncommon and can be unrecognised on presentation, with no haematuria or frank peritoneal signs. We report delayed diagnosis of two cases of urinary bladder rupture secondary to long-term indwelling catheter to highlight the 'red-flag' symptomatology and management approach. Health care professionals should keep a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with bladder pathology.