FurWell at Barkingham provides Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) surgery for cats who experience recurrent urethral obstructions. This life-saving procedure permanently widens the urethral opening to prevent future blockages and protect your cat's long-term health.
Male cats are prone to urethral obstructions due to their narrow urethra. When a cat cannot urinate, it is a life-threatening emergency. Cats who experience multiple urethral blockages may be candidates for PU surgery, which removes the narrow penile portion of the urethra and creates a wider, permanent opening. This significantly reduces the risk of future obstructions.
Cats presenting with obstruction require stabilization — relief of the blockage, IV fluids, and correction of metabolic abnormalities — before surgery is performed.
The surgeon removes the narrow penile urethra and creates a new, wider urethral opening using the wider pelvic urethra. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia with careful monitoring.
Your cat will have a urinary catheter for 3-5 days post-operatively. Recovery at home requires strict confinement, an e-collar, and close attention to urinary output. Follow-up is critical to monitor healing.
Urethral obstruction is a veterinary emergency. PU surgery dramatically reduces recurrence risk, protecting your cat from future crises.
After recovery, most cats have significantly fewer urinary issues and enjoy a more comfortable, normal life.
Recurrent obstructions require urgent, costly care. PU surgery reduces the need for repeated emergency hospitalizations.
PU surgery is typically recommended for male cats who have experienced two or more urethral blockages, or for cats whose obstructions cannot be resolved with catheterization. Our veterinarians will evaluate your cat's history and anatomy to determine if PU is the appropriate intervention.
Most cats spend 5-7 days in the hospital after PU surgery for monitoring and catheter management. At-home recovery requires strict confinement and e-collar use for 2-3 weeks to protect the surgical site from trauma.
Your cat should be stable and free of active obstruction before surgery is performed. Bring all prior medical records and history of urinary blockages. Our team will stabilize your cat if needed and discuss the surgical plan with you.
PU surgery dramatically reduces — but does not completely eliminate — the risk of future urethral obstruction. Dietary management, hydration, and stress reduction remain important for long-term urinary health after surgery.
Call us at (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. We are open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm. Schedule a urinary health consultation today.
If your male cat has had multiple urethral blockages, contact our team to discuss surgical options. Call (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. Open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm.
