27/06/2025
Perineal Urethrostomy in Cats: A Lifesaving Surgery for Urinary Blockage
Urethrostomy in cats, particularly perineal urethrostomy (PU), is a surgical procedure performed to create a new permanent opening in the urethra to allow easier urination. This is most commonly done in male cats who suffer from recurrent urinary obstructions due to urethral plugs, crystals, stones, scarring, or trauma (especially when medical management fails). The surgery involves removing the narrow portion of the pe**le urethra and suturing the wider pelvic urethra directly to the skin, typically in the perineal area (between the a**s and sc***um as shown in the image).
Before the procedure, stabilization of the patient is critical, including fluid therapy and correction of any electrolyte imbalances. Diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, bloodwork, and imaging are also done to assess the underlying cause.
After surgery, strict post-operative care is required, including the use of an e-collar to prevent licking, switching to paper pellet litter to avoid infection, pain management, and monitoring for bleeding or swelling.
Although complications such as bleeding, infection, or surgical site narrowing (stricture) can occur, most cats recover well and are able to urinate comfortably afterward.
With proper aftercare, the prognosis is generally good, and the procedure significantly improves the cat’s quality of life by preventing life-threatening urinary blockage.
