Urinary blockages can be life-threatening to your furry friend, and we at Trail Pet Hospital are here to help. We may recommend a perineal urethrostomy, sometimes referred to as "PU," to provide relief and lower the risk of future blockages. You can count on our team for exceptional, compassionate care.
What Is Perineal Urethrostomy Surgery?
PU is a surgical procedure that involves widening the opening of the urethra, the small tube that carries your pet's urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. It involves removing the penis and rerouting the urethra to open in a new location. The process is relatively simple, with an excellent success rate. It can relieve current blockages and lower the risk of future ones, improving your pet's health and quality of life.
Is Your Cat or Dog a Candidate for Perineal Urethrostomy Surgery?
PU surgery is performed on male cats and dogs to relieve urinary blockages. When it comes to dogs, urinary tract blockages are usually caused by bladder stones, trauma, or tumors.
Cats, on the other hand, may develop feline urinary tract disease (FLUTD), a common condition that usually affects young to middle-aged, overweight cats. The urethra is very narrow in male cats. That makes it more likely to get blocked by crystals, stones, sediment, or spasms of the muscles in the lower urinary tract. Blockages can also occur due to infection or stress.
When the urethra is blocked, your precious pet cannot urinate, leading to a buildup of toxic substances in the body. That can lead to serious health problems, such as kidney failure, sepsis, abnormal heart rhythms, and even death. Urinary blockages are a serious medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.
What Are Common Symptoms of Urinary Blockages?
Here's a look at some symptoms of urinary blockages in cats and dogs:
- Straining to urinate
- Frequent urination in small amounts
- Blood in the urine
- Discolored urine
- Painful urination
- Inappropriate urination (outside the litter box)
- Crying, restlessness, or hiding because of discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Extreme lethargy
- Collapse
While these symptoms may not necessarily mean your pet has a urinary blockage, they warrant an immediate evaluation. Our veterinarians at Trail Pet Hospital will recommend the best treatment option to get your cat or dog's health back on track.
How Can You Lower the Risk of Urinary Blockages in Cats and Dogs?
Here are some preventive measures to lower the risk of urinary blockages in your cat or dog:
- Hydration: Make sure to provide access to fresh, clean water. Adequate hydration helps maintain urine flow and dilutes potential crystals or debris that may lead to blockages.
- Balanced Diet: Feed your pet a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for their specific needs and avoid feeding table scraps. Consult with our veterinarians to determine the optimal diet and whether your pet requires special formulas to prevent urinary tract issues.
- Urinary Supplements: Talk to our veterinarians about giving your cat or dog supplements or specially formulated diets that promote urinary health. These supplements help maintain a healthy pH balance in the urine and reduce the risk of crystal formation.
- Regular Exercise: Encourage regular exercise and playtime for your pets, which helps maintain muscle tone and encourages regular bladder emptying. It also helps maintain a healthy weight, which lowers the risk of urinary obstructions.
- Stress Reduction: Minimize stressors in your pets' environment, as stress can contribute to urinary issues. Provide a calm and stable atmosphere, and consider implementing stress-reducing techniques such as environmental enrichment and interactive play.
- Litter Box Management: Ensure that litter boxes are clean and easily accessible for your cats. Provide enough litter boxes in multi-cat households to prevent overcrowding and encourage regular elimination.
- Routine Veterinary Check-ups: Visit Trail Pet Hospital for routine preventive care. We will monitor your cat or dog's health and address any potential urinary concerns as they surface.
Implementing these preventive measures and working closely with our veterinarians can significantly lower the risk of urinary blockages in your beloved cats and dogs, promoting their long-term health and well-being.
Perineal Urethrostomy Surgery Near Me in Dallas, TX
If you suspect your pet may have a urinary tract blockage, contact Trail Pet Hospital right away. Our team will evaluate your furry friend and help you determine whether perineal urethrostomy surgery is the best option. We are committed to providing the best possible care for your furry friend. We invite you to call 972-629-9766 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!
Proudly serving patients in Dallas, Plano, The Colony, Addison, Richardson, and the surrounding communities.