Urogenital Surgery
Noticing changes in your pet’s bathroom habits can be stressful. Maybe you’ve seen your cat visiting the litter box repeatedly without producing anything, or your dog seems uncomfortable while trying to urinate on a walk. While it’s easy to hope these are just minor infections, they can sometimes signal serious issues requiring surgical intervention.
Urogenital surgery sounds intimidating, but for many pets, it is a life-saving procedure that restores their comfort and happiness. Whether it’s removing bladder stones or correcting a dangerous blockage, understanding these procedures can help you make the best decisions for your furry family member.
When does a pet need urogenital surgery?
The most common scenario leading to urogenital surgery is a urinary obstruction. This is particularly dangerous in male cats, but it happens to dogs as well. Minerals in the urine crystallize and form stones or a grit-like substance that blocks the urethra (the tube carrying urine out of the body).
When a pet cannot urinate, toxins build up in the bloodstream quickly. This is a medical emergency. If medical management like using a catheter and fluids doesn’t resolve the issue, or if the stones are too large to pass, surgery becomes necessary.
Symptoms that may indicate a need for urgent evaluation include:
- Straining to urinate with little to no output.
- Crying or vocalizing while in the litter box or squatting.
- Blood in the urine.
- Lethargy and vomiting.
- Licking the genital area excessively.
If you notice these signs, don’t wait.
[Contact Nimbus Pet Hospital immediately to schedule an exam]
Why choose Nimbus Pet Hospital for urogenital surgery?
At Nimbus Pet Hospital, serving the Tigard and Beaverton communities, we understand that surgery is a stressful event for both you and your pet. We prioritize safety and pain management above all else.
Our veterinary team is experienced in soft tissue surgeries, including complex urogenital procedures. We utilize advanced monitoring equipment during anesthesia to ensure your pet’s vitals remain stable throughout the operation. Furthermore, we believe in comprehensive aftercare. We don’t just perform the surgery; we work with you on diet changes and long-term management to prevent the issue from coming back.
Conditions we treat with urogenital surgery
Surgery isn’t always the first line of defense, but it is the most effective solution for specific structural or chronic problems. At Nimbus Pet Hospital, we can diagnose and determine surgical treatment for:
- Bladder Stones (Cystotomy): Opening the bladder to remove stones that are causing pain, bleeding, or recurrent infections.
- Urethral Blockages (Perineal Urethrostomy): Often called “PU surgery,” this procedure is common for male cats with recurrent blockages. We surgically widen the urethral opening to allow urine and crystals to pass more freely, significantly lowering the risk of future life-threatening obstructions.
- Tumors: Removal of masses found in the bladder or reproductive tract.
- Congenital Defects: Correcting issues present from birth, such as ectopic ureters, where the anatomy causes incontinence.
- Trauma: Repairing injuries to the urinary tract caused by accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a urinary blockage fatal?
Yes, if left untreated. A complete urinary obstruction can lead to kidney failure and death within 24 to 48 hours. It is considered one of the most critical veterinary emergencies. If your pet is straining and producing no urine, seek help immediately.
What is the recovery time for urogenital surgery?
Recovery depends on the specific procedure. Generally, pets will need to wear an Elizabethan collar (the “cone of shame”) for 10 to 14 days to prevent them from licking the incision site. You will also need to restrict their activity and administer pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed. Most pets feel significantly better within a few days once the source of their pain is removed.
Can diet prevent the need for surgery?
Diet plays a huge role in urinary health. If your pet is prone to crystals or stones, our veterinarians will likely prescribe a specific therapeutic diet. These foods are formulated to balance urine pH and dissolve certain types of crystals before they turn into large stones. Sticking to this diet strictly is the best way to avoid future surgeries.
Let’s get your pet comfortable again
Urogenital issues are painful, but they are treatable. If you are worried about your pet’s urinary health, or if you need a second opinion regarding a surgical recommendation, our compassionate team is here to help.
Don’t let your pet suffer in silence. Reach out to Nimbus Pet Hospital today to discuss your options and get your companion back to feeling their best.