If your feline friend develops a urinary blockage treatment is required FAST! If your vet is unable to treat your cat's blockage quickly and effectively with standard treatments your kitty may need a perineal urethrostomy (PU). Below, our Somerset County vets explain more about PU surgery for cats.
Causes of Urinary Blockages in Cats
Urinary blockages in cats are caused by 'plugs' made of protein-rich sludge, crystals, or small stones that could get caught in their urethra - the tube that lets your feline friend urinate. Male cats that have been neutered are at a much higher risk of getting urinary blockages because their urethra is much narrower, so less material can pass through.
What Urinary Blockages Look Like in Cats
When a cat has an obstruction in their urethra, they will squat to pee more frequently than normal but little to no urine will be expelled. The most pressing issue with this condition is that liquid will still continue to enter the bladder, but can't be expelled when the bladder is filled. This will cause serious, and noticeable discomfort and even pain from the pressure. The toxic waste that is typically released through urination will begin to back up into the bloodstream resulting in lethargy, disorientation, and vomiting. If this issue isn't treated promptly, the bladder will rupture.
How Cat PU Surgery Can Help
If your cat's obstruction can't be treated with standard methods such as pushing the blockage away with a catheter, or your kitty gets frequent urinary blockages, they might need a surgical procedure called perineal urethrostomy (PU).
This procedure is designed to make the urethra wider, thus allowing potential blockages to pass through rather than getting stuck. This surgery can reduce the risk of future blockages but does not guarantee that they will never get an obstruction again.
Cat PU Surgery Recovery
Your cat will have to wear an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to keep them from biting or licking the incision site. Excessive licking could interfere with your cat's healing and if your cat licks or gets to the incision, there may not be any tissue left to repair since the skin is very thin. Do not remove the collar until your vet gives you the go-ahead, which is typically in about 2 weeks.
Your cat will also need to be kept calm and have their activity restricted. Your veterinarian may recommend confining your cat to a small area, away from other pets, where their activity can be limited and they can be closely monitored.
It's normal for cats to have blood in their urine for the first few days directly after their surgery and they might have accidents as they get accustomed to their urethra's new function. This is only temporary and we suggest keeping your kitty in a room that has a tile floor while they recover from PU surgery to make the accidents easier to clean up. If your furry friend gets urine or bloodstains on their belly or back legs you can clean them with a wet washcloth. Be careful not to directly wipe the incision site.
While your kitty recovers, they will require a special litter so it won't stick to the incision. You can use shredded newspaper or a pelleted litter that you can purchase. Be prepared and have an appropriate paper litter ready for your cat when they get home. You can return to your regular litter after they have healed.
The Long-Term Prognosis For Cats After PU Surgery
Typically, the outcome for cats that undergo PU surgery is positive. This procedure could help your cat have a more comfortable life without getting bladder obstructions repeatedly.
Studies have shown that cats tend to live around three to five years after PU surgery. Keep in mind that, this surgery won't negatively impact their life expectancy. With proper preventive care, your cat can have a healthy and happy life without blockages.
PU Surgery for Cats - Cost
The cost of your cat's PU surgery will depend on various different factors including the diagnostics tests required, your location, and the severity of your cat's condition. Also, when you compare the fees for frequently treating blockages, PU surgery might even save you money long-term. Don't hesitate to contact us at AnimERge to get a cost estimate.
Preventing Your Cat from Experiencing a Urinary Obstruction
The key to lowering your cat's risk of having a urinary blockage is to implement proper preventive care. Visiting your vet regularly for routine wellness exams gives them the chance to make sure your feline friend is getting the appropriate care at home to prevent blockages. Here, we have listed a few additional things you can do at home between appointments to prevent your kitty from developing this condition:
- Offer an enriched environment with perches, moving toys, or food puzzles.
- .Reduce your cat's stress by keeping their litter clean and reducing changes to their schedule.
- Change their diet to a urinary diet that has limited minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium.
- Increase your cat's water intake by providing clean, fresh water, or adding some flavor
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.