What is Perineal Urethrostomy Surgery?
Perineal urethrostomy surgery (often shortened to PU) is a surgical procedure that changes the male cat’s urethra to make it easier to urinate. Perineal urethrostomy surgery is often recommended after having multiple urinary catheterizations for medical management of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). The procedure makes the cat’s urethra shorter and wider, which aims to prevent the discomfort and inconvenience associated with repeated use of a urinary catheter. Perineal urethrostomy surgery can be life-saving for some cats, but it’s important to first consult your veterinarian.
Why Are Male Cats More Susceptible?
Male cats are much more likely to develop urinary blockages than female cats, due to the distinctions in urinary tract structure between the two genders. One reason male cats may develop urinary blockage is that the lower urinary tract is narrower, longer, and has more bends in males. This can lead to partial or complete blockage of the urethra.
What is a urinary blockage in pets?
Urinary blockage in pets is the inability to pass urine. The urethra, or tube that carries urine from your pet’s bladder out of their body, can be blocked by a variety of different things (stones, mucous, scar tissue, or severe inflammation). Urine builds up behind the blockage causing pain and the build-up of toxins, which leads to damage to tissues and potentially death if left untreated for too long.
What are signs your pet may be experiencing urinary blockage?
Some signs of a blocked urethra include:
- Straining to urinate
- Crying or howling while attempting to use their bathroom
- Attempting to urinate much more than normal, but only producing a few drops of urine
- Blood in urine
If you notice your feline friend experiencing these symptoms, call our team!