How much does Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) surgery for cats cost?
How much does Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) surgery for cats cost?
$1,500 – $3,000 average cost
Feline PU surgery cost
Perineal urethrostomy (PU) surgery for cats costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average, depending on your location, the veterinary facility, the severity of your cat's condition, and whether the surgery is an emergency or a planned procedure. PU surgery can be lifesaving for cats with urethral blockage.
| National Average Cost | $2,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $5,000 |
| Average Range | $1,500 to $3,000 |
What is PU surgery in cats?
Perineal urethrostomy (PU) is a surgical procedure performed on male cats to treat recurrent urinary obstructions. The surgery involves creating a wider opening in the urethra to allow for easier passage of urine and reduce the risk of future blockages.
The vet accomplishes this by removing a portion of the penis and creating a new urinary opening in the perineal area.
When is PU surgery recommended for cats?
Veterinarians typically recommend PU surgery for male cats who have experienced multiple urinary blockages or have severe urethral damage, or when a cat has a urethral obstruction in the penis that can't be removed with other medical therapies.
This procedure is often considered a last resort when other treatments, such as dietary changes and medications, have failed to prevent recurrent obstructions.
Common symptoms of urinary blockage in cats
Watch for these warning signs that may indicate your cat is experiencing urinary blockage:
Frequent trips to the litter box with little or no urine output
Straining or crying while attempting to urinate
Blood in the urine
Excessive licking of the genital area
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Vomiting
Abdominal pain or sensitivity when touched
Benefits and risks of Perineal Urethrostomy in cats
Like any surgical procedure, PU surgery carries both risks and benefits. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision about your cat's treatment.
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What to expect after cat PU surgery
After perineal urethrostomy (PU) surgery, your cat will likely spend 2 to 3 days in the veterinary hospital for monitoring, pain management, and possible catheterization.
When you bring your cat home, they'll need to wear an Elizabethan collar—also called a cone—to prevent them from licking the surgical site. Your cat should stay in a quiet space with easy access to food, water, and a litter box with paper or dust-free litter to prevent irritation.
For the next two weeks, you'll need to monitor the surgical site daily for signs of infection or complications, give all prescribed medications, and watch for any difficulty urinating.
Long-term, your cat will have a permanently wider urethral opening and may urinate with a slightly different posture but should otherwise return to normal.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice your cat straining to urinate or significant bleeding, loss of appetite, or signs of pain despite medication.
PU cat surgery cost factors
Several factors affect the total cost of PU surgery:
Veterinary facility: Board-certified veterinary surgeons and specialty hospitals typically charge more than general practice veterinarians, but they often have more experience with complex procedures.
Pre-surgical testing: Your cat will need blood work, urinalysis, and possibly imaging tests before surgery to ensure they're healthy enough for the procedure. Some veterinarians include these diagnostic tests in the surgery price while others charge separately.
Bloodwork for a cat costs $50 to $150 for a Complete Blood Count (CBC) panel.
A cat X-ray costs $100 to $250 on average.
Length of hospital stay: Most cats need to stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days after surgery for monitoring and care. Each additional day of hospitalization can add $100 to $300+ to the final bill.
Medications: Post-operative pain medications, antibiotics, and any other necessary drugs will increase the total cost.
Complications: While not common, any complications during or after surgery may require additional treatment and extend the hospital stay, potentially adding hundreds or thousands to the cost.
Emergency vs. planned surgery: Emergency PU surgeries cost more than planned procedures due to after-hours care and the intensive nature of emergency treatment.
Geographic location: Veterinary costs vary significantly by region, with vets in areas with a higher cost of living typically charging more for surgical procedures.
FAQs about feline PU surgery
Does PU surgery shorten a cat's life?
PU surgery itself does not shorten a cat's life. In fact, for cats with recurrent urinary blockages, this surgery can significantly improve their quality of life. The life expectancy of cats after PU surgery is generally normal, provided they receive proper care and regular veterinary check-ups.
However, cats that have undergone PU surgery may be more prone to urinary tract infections, which require prompt treatment to prevent complications.
Is PU surgery worth it for cats?
For cats with recurring urinary blockages or severe urethral problems, PU surgery can be lifesaving and significantly improve their quality of life. While the initial cost is substantial, it may be more economical in the long run compared to repeated emergency visits and catheterizations. The decision should be based on your cat's specific medical needs and your veterinarian's recommendation.
Are there alternatives to PU surgery for cats?
While PU surgery is recommended for severe cases, there are other treatment methods that may work for less severe or early-stage urinary issues:
Dietary management: Special urinary diets can help prevent crystal formation in the urine.
Increased water intake: Encouraging more water consumption can help dilute urine and reduce crystal formation.
Medications: The vet may prescribe drugs to relax the urethra or dissolve small stones.
Environmental enrichment: Reducing stress can help prevent some urinary issues in cats.
Regular veterinary check-ups: Early detection and management of urinary problems can prevent the need for surgery.
Your veterinarian can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your cat based on their specific condition.
Questions to ask your vet about PU surgery
Ask your veterinarian these important questions to ensure you understand the Perineal Urethrostomy surgical procedure, risks, and recovery process:
What are the specific reasons you're recommending PU surgery for my cat?
How many PU surgeries have you performed?
What is your success rate with performing this surgery?
What are the potential complications, and how often do you see them occur?
Are there any alternatives we should consider before proceeding with surgery?
How long will my cat need to stay at the hospital?
What is the expected recovery time, and what special care will my cat need during this period?
How will this surgery affect my cat's urinary habits in the long term?
What lifestyle changes will be necessary after surgery?
How can I prevent future urinary problems?
What is the total estimated cost, including pre-surgical tests, the procedure itself, and post-operative care?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.