How much does pyometra surgery cost?
How much does pyometra surgery cost?
$800 – $2,200 average cost
Average cost of pyometra surgery for dogs
Pyometra surgery costs $800 to $2,000 on average, depending on the dog's age and size, the severity of the infection, the veterinarian's experience, and your location. However, the cost of pyometra surgery can be much higher than average at an emergency vet clinic compared to a general practice vet's office.
| National Average Cost | $1,250 |
| Minimum Cost | $575 |
| Maximum Cost | $8,000 |
| Average Range | $800 to $2,200 |
The cost of pyometra surgery typically includes:
Physical exam
Diagnostic tests and bloodwork
Anesthesia
Surgical procedure
Post-op care
Antibiotics and pain medications
Follow-up visit
What is pyometra in dogs?
Pyometra is a severe and potentially fatal infection of the uterus that affects unspayed female dogs. It typically occurs a few weeks after a heat cycle and is characterized by the accumulation of pus in the uterus. This condition can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated.
The primary cause of pyometra in dogs is hormonal changes that occur during the heat cycle. These changes can create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive in the uterus, leading to infection. Older, unspayed females are at higher risk, but pyometra can affect dogs of any age.
How common is pyometra in dogs?
Pyometra is relatively common in unspayed female dogs. Research indicates up to 25% of unspayed female dogs will develop pyometra before the age of 10. This high prevalence underscores the importance of either spaying or closely monitoring your female dog's health.
How to prevent pyometra
The most effective way to prevent pyometra is by spaying your female dog. Spaying also provides other benefits, including better health, a reduced chance of ovarian and uterine cancer, better behavior, and a longer life. Research shows spayed dogs typically live 13% to 26% longer than unspayed dogs, making it a worthwhile investment in your pet's health and longevity.
The average cost to spay a dog is $50 to $300 at a low-cost clinic or Humane Society and $250 to $600 at a vet's office.
Pyometra surgery costs more than a routine spay because the surgery is done on an emergency basis, the procedure is more complicated due to the size and state of the infected uterus, and the dog requires extra fluids and medications to save them from the life-threatening infection.
Pyometra surgery cost factors
The following factors impact the cost of pyometra surgery for dogs:
Severity of the infection: More advanced cases may require more intensive treatment, emergency after-hours surgery, or more pre-op and post-op care, increasing the overall cost.
Hospitalization: Costs are higher if your dog requires extended hospitalization to stabilize her condition. Some dogs may need to stay at the veterinary clinic for several days.
General practice vs. emergency clinic: Emergency clinics often charge significantly higher fees than regular veterinary practices due to their 24/7 availability and specialized equipment, with total fees sometimes exceeding $4,000.
Dog's size: Larger dogs require more anesthesia, larger doses of antibiotics and pain medications, and may require two surgeons working together, which increases the overall cost.
Diagnostic tests: Before surgery, the vet will perform pre-surgical bloodwork along with X-rays or an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis:
Dog bloodwork costs $100 to $200.
Dog X-rays cost $150 to $250.
A dog ultrasound costs $300 to $600.
Location: Veterinary costs vary by geographical location. Fees are typically higher in urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living.
FAQs about pyometra surgery
How long can a dog live with pyometra?
Pyometra is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, as untreated pyometra is fatal. A dog with pyometra can die from the infection within days if surgery is not performed as soon as possible.
Is pyometra contagious?
No, pyometra is not contagious. It is an infection that develops within an individual dog's uterus and cannot be transmitted to other dogs or animals. However, the bacteria causing the infection could potentially spread to other parts of the affected dog's body if left untreated.
Can pyometra be cured with antibiotics?
While antibiotics are an important part of treating pyometra, they are not enough to cure the condition. Pyometra typically requires surgical intervention to remove the infected uterus.
In some very mild cases or situations where surgery is not possible, medical management with antibiotics and hormonal treatments might be attempted. However, this approach is less effective and carries a higher risk of recurrence compared to surgery.
Can a spayed dog get pyometra?
While extremely rare, a spayed dog can develop a condition similar to pyometra called "stump pyometra." This can occur if a small portion of the uterus was left behind during the spaying procedure. However, the risk is significantly lower compared to unspayed dogs.
How long does pyometra surgery take?
Pyometra surgery takes about 45 minutes to 2 hours for the procedure itself, depending on the severity of the infection and the dog's overall health. However, the entire process, including preparation, anesthesia, surgery, and immediate post-operative care, can take several hours.
Can pyometra come back after surgery?
If the entire uterus and ovaries are removed during pyometra surgery—a procedure called a complete ovariohysterectomy—it's virtually impossible for pyometra to recur. However, in rare cases where only part of the reproductive tract is removed, there is a small chance of recurrence. For this reason, complete removal is the standard treatment for pyometra.
How to choose a veterinarian for pyometra surgery
Selecting the right veterinarian for your dog's pyometra surgery is crucial. Follow these tips to help you choose an experienced professional:
Look for a veterinarian with specific experience in pyometra surgeries.
Check the veterinary clinic's emergency capabilities and aftercare services.
Read reviews on Vety and Google.
Ask for recommendations from other pet owners.
Ensure the clinic has up-to-date equipment for diagnostics and surgery.
Consider the veterinarian's communication style and willingness to answer your questions.
Questions to ask a veterinary surgeon
Ask your veterinarian these important questions to ensure you understand the surgical procedure, risks, and recovery process:
How many pyometra surgeries have you performed?
What are the specific risks associated with my dog's pyometra surgery?
What is the expected recovery time?
What aftercare will be required?
What complications should I watch for post-surgery?
Will my dog need ongoing medication or follow-up visits?
What measures do you take to ensure my dog's comfort during and after the surgery?
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.