Perineal Urethrostomy Brisbane
Cat Urinary Blockage Surgery at Plus One Vet Nundah
Nundah
07 3707 5434
A urinary blockage is one of the most urgent health emergencies a cat can face. When a male cat cannot pass urine, the consequences can become life-threatening within hours. Perineal urethrostomy, or PU surgery, is a procedure that creates a wider urinary opening to dramatically reduce the risk of recurring blockages in cats who have not responded to other treatment.
At Plus One Vet Nundah, we perform feline PU surgery on site with full anaesthetic monitoring, in-house diagnostics, and dedicated post-operative care. If your cat has experienced recurrent urinary blockages, our team can assess whether PU surgery is the right path forward.
Signs Your Cat May Need PU Surgery
Cats are skilled at masking discomfort, which is why urinary problems can escalate quickly before owners realise something is seriously wrong. Contact us straight away if your cat is showing any of the following:
Straining in the Litter Tray
Repeated trips to the litter tray with little or no urine produced is one of the earliest and most telling signs of a urinary obstruction. If your cat is straining or posturing to urinate without result, treat it as urgent.
Crying or Vocalising
Vocalising during attempts to urinate, or general restlessness and distress, indicates significant discomfort. Cats in pain from a blocked bladder will often cry out when touched near the abdomen.
Blood in the Urine
Pink or red-tinged urine is a sign that something is wrong in the urinary tract. It can indicate inflammation, infection, or the presence of crystals or stones, all of which can lead to obstruction.
Lethargy and Loss of Appetite
A cat that is suddenly quiet, withdrawn, or uninterested in food may be dealing with a serious internal problem. In the case of a urinary blockage, toxin buildup in the bloodstream can cause rapid deterioration.
Collapse or Unresponsiveness
A cat that has been unable to urinate for an extended period may collapse or become unresponsive. This is a critical emergency. Call us immediately or proceed to an emergency facility without delay.
When Is Perineal Urethrostomy Recommended?
PU surgery is not the first step in managing a blocked cat. It is typically considered when other options have been exhausted or are no longer viable. Our team will carry out a thorough assessment before recommending surgery. Common indications include:
Recurrent Urethral Obstruction
When a cat experiences repeated blockages despite appropriate medical management and dietary changes, the risk to their health and quality of life becomes significant. PU surgery is often the most effective long-term solution in these cases.
Urethral Stricture
Repeated catheterisation or chronic inflammation can cause scar tissue to form inside the urethra, narrowing it significantly. A stricture of this kind makes future blockages more likely and can make catheterisation impossible.
Urethral Neoplasia
In rare cases, a tumour affecting the urethra may obstruct urine flow. PU surgery may be indicated as part of managing the condition and restoring the cat’s ability to urinate comfortably.
Failed Catheterisation
In some cases, the blockage cannot be relieved using a urinary catheter. This may be due to the severity of the obstruction or the condition of the urethra. When catheterisation is not possible, PU surgery may be the only option to restore urine flow.
Urethral Trauma
Injury to the urethra, whether from trauma or a prior procedure, can damage the urinary tract in a way that requires surgical correction to restore normal function.
Preparing Your Cat for PU Surgery
Good preparation makes the procedure safer and recovery smoother. Our team will walk you through everything at your pre-surgical consultation, but here is what to expect.
Before Surgery Day
Your cat will need to fast from food for a minimum of eight hours before the procedure. Water can generally be offered up until a few hours before admission. We will confirm the exact instructions at your pre-surgical appointment.
If your cat is on any regular medications, let us know in advance. Some medications may need to be paused before surgery. Bring a secure carrier and a familiar blanket to help keep your cat calm on arrival.
On the Day
Bring your cat in at the agreed admission time. Our team will check them in, review the consent paperwork with you, and answer any last-minute questions before they are admitted to our care. We will call you once the procedure is complete and again when your cat is ready to go home.
Most cats are discharged the same day or the following morning depending on how they are recovering. We will not rush discharge. Your cat goes home when we are confident they are ready.
What Feline PU Surgery Involves at Plus One Vet Nundah
All perineal urethrostomy procedures at Plus One Vet Nundah are performed by our experienced surgical team. Here is what the process looks like from start to finish.
Pre-Operative Assessment
Before surgery, we perform a full clinical assessment including blood tests and imaging to evaluate your cat’s overall health and confirm there are no additional concerns such as bladder stones that need to be addressed at the same time. This step is essential for planning a safe anaesthetic and surgical approach.
Anaesthesia and Monitoring
Your cat will be placed under general anaesthesia throughout the procedure. Our team monitors heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature continuously, so any changes are picked up and managed immediately.
The Procedure
PU surgery removes the narrow tip of the urethra and penis, and creates a new, wider urinary opening at the perineum. This wider passage is far less likely to become obstructed by crystals, mucous plugs, or small stones. The procedure typically takes around one to one and a half hours.
Post-Operative Monitoring
After surgery, your cat will recover in our clinic under close observation before going home. In some cases a urinary catheter may be placed for a short period post-operatively. We will not discharge your cat until we are satisfied they are stable and comfortable.
Exceptional Pet Care
Why Pet Families Love Dr. Leo & Our Team at Plus One Vet Nundah
Nundah
07 3707 5434
Frequently Asked Questions About PU Surgery
How long does recovery from PU surgery take?
Most cats recover well within two to four weeks. The surgical site typically heals within 10 to 14 days, but activity restrictions should continue for the full recovery period. Some cats return to normal behaviour sooner, while others need a little more time.
Is PU surgery risky for cats?
Like any surgical procedure, PU surgery carries some risk. However, for cats with recurrent or unrelievable blockages, the risk of not having surgery is far greater. Performed by an experienced surgeon with full monitoring and post-operative care, PU surgery has a high success rate and most cats do very well afterwards.
Can a cat live a normal life after PU surgery?
Yes. The majority of cats who undergo PU surgery go on to live comfortable, normal lives. The surgery significantly reduces the risk of life-threatening blockages. Ongoing dietary management and regular monitoring are still important, but quality of life outcomes are generally very positive.
Does PU surgery prevent urinary problems completely?
Not completely. PU surgery reduces the risk of physical obstruction but does not cure the underlying urinary tract disease. Crystal formation, bladder inflammation, and urinary tract infections can still occur. Continued medical and dietary management remains an important part of your cat’s care.
How much does PU surgery cost in Brisbane?
The cost varies depending on your cat’s specific condition, whether additional procedures such as a cystotomy are required, and their overall health status going into surgery. Call our team on 07 3707 5434 for a consultation and we can provide a detailed estimate based on your cat’s individual needs.
What happens if a cat keeps getting blocked without surgery?
Repeated urinary blockages are life-threatening. Each episode puts significant strain on the kidneys and heart, and a cat that cannot urinate will deteriorate rapidly. If medical management is no longer preventing blockages, PU surgery is typically the safest long-term option available.
