Urinary blockages can be deadly for cats if not treated quickly. PU surgery is often the best way to treat this life-threatening and painful condition. Today's post explains what PU surgery is and what to expect from your cat's recovery.
What is cat PU surgery?
PU or perineal urethrostomy is a surgical reconstruction of the tube your cat urinates through called the urethra. This surgery is performed to create a larger opening through which your cat can urinate. Typically, PU surgery is considered once it has been determined that urinary obstructions either cannot be corrected by catheterization or if the cat has been experiencing repeated obstructions.
Urinary blockages can very quickly become life-threatening for your cat. While this surgery is used to greatly decrease the likelihood of repeat blockages it will not guarantee that obstructions will not reoccur. The care taken after surgery will help to ensure that the procedure is a success and lower the risk of future blockages.
While possible in both male and female cats, it is much more likely for male cats to experience urinary blockages due to differences in urethra width. As the male urethra extends the length of the penis it becomes more narrow increasing the likelihood of an obstruction occurring.
Why is PU surgery being recommended for my cat?
Perineal urethrostomy surgery in cats is most commonly recommended in the following situations.
- A urethral obstruction within the penis that cannot be removed. The most common treatment for urethral obstructions is through the use of a urinary catheter. Your vet would pass this catheter through the external opening of the urethra forcing any stones or mucus within the urethra into the bladder, at which point they can be managed using medication or surgery. If this method is unable to clear the blockage then perineal urethrostomy surgery may be required in order to allow the cat to urinate.
- Recurrent urethral obstructions. Some male cats experience recurring blockages. Although it is possible to keep removing the blockages, PU surgery can be performed to try to avoid or lower the risk of future obstructions.
How does PU surgery help?
PU surgery addresses issues with the narrow urethra in the distal penis. The goal of PU surgery is to widen the urethra. Your vet will complete this by incising the penis and suturing it open to create a stoma (an opening) and drainage board. Over the weeks following surgery, the drainage board will shrink and your cat's fur will grow back and leave your cat with more of an appearance of a female cat rather than a male.
What aftercare is required after PU surgery?
As well as the chance that your cat may attempt to scratch or bite at the area, cats are notorious for attempting to clean and lick their wounds. This is why it is usually recommended that your cat wear an Elizabethan collar for the duration of the recovery process.
Your vet will also recommend having your cat kept in an area of the home where they can relax and will not be able to climb or jump onto furniture. Your cat should also be isolated from other pets to limit interactions and possible playtime which could further injure your cat.
What will my cat's recovery from PU surgery be like?
If your cat has undergone successful PU surgery at Spring Animal Hospital, with no complications following the procedure, there should be no further concerns. There may be a rare case where a cat experiences another obstruction after having PU surgery, but this is highly unlikely.
How much does PU surgery for cats cost?
The cost of your cat's PU surgery will be based on a number of factors including the size and overall health of your cat, as well as where your vet's office is located. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of your cat's PU surgery speak to your vet. At Spring Animal Hospital in Long Beach our team will be happy to provide you with an estimate of costs and go through those costs with you so you can make an informed decision about your cat's care.
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.